3 testify as Gary Best’s trial for causing death begins

The trial of former Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Chief-of-Staff, Retired Rear Admiral Gary Best, who is accused of causing the death of former national cyclist Jude Bentley in a road accident, commenced on Tuesday, October 6, 2020 at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

During the virtual hearing, the prosecution called three witnesses to the stand: two Police ranks and a civilian. The trial continues today before Magistrate Rondel Weever.
According to the first charge against Best, on February 8, 2020, at Clive Lloyd Drive, Greater Georgetown, he drove a motor vehicle, PRR 8182, in a manner dangerous to the public, thereby causing the death of Bentley. It was further alleged that on the same day at the same location, he drove the motor vehicle while his blood alcohol level was 85 micrograms, which is above the legal limit.

In relation to the causing death charge, Best, an executive member of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR), pleaded not guilty and was ordered to post $500,000 bail. In relation to the charge of driving under the influence, he was released on his own recognisance (self-bail). As a condition of bail, Best was ordered to report to the Police Force Traffic Headquarters on specified dates until the completion of his trial.
He is being represented by prominent Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes.
Bentley, 41, was struck down and run over by the vehicle allegedly driven by Best on Clive Lloyd Drive near the Russian Embassy turn.
Reports are at the time of the accident, both Best and Bentley were travelling in an easterly direction.
Investigators found that Best was driving under the influence of alcohol. After the accident, Best was taken into custody, but later complained of feeling unwell and as such, was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was admitted.
Best was a former Presidential Adviser under the David Granger Administration.