89 cases for trial at Essequibo October Criminal Assizes

The Essequibo October Criminal Assizes opened on October 24 with 89 cases set to be heard by Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the High Court in Suddie, Essequibo, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).
Among the cases listed are murder, manslaughter, attempt to commit murder, wounding with intent, discharge of loaded firearm, rape, rape of a child under 16, sexual activity with a child family member, unlawful possession of firearm/ammunition, armed robbery, and abduction.
Besides examining committal records, the functions of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) include presenting indictments in the Criminal Assizes at the High Courts in Demerara, Berbice and Essequibo. During these criminal sessions, one or more state counsel and/or special prosecutor(s) would be assigned to prosecute the cases listed to be heard by the sitting trial judges.
There are four assizes for the year in the county of Demerara, and three assizes per year in both the counties of Berbice and Essequibo. The courts in all three counties sit nearly simultaneously during these assizes.
Demerara usually has more cases than the other counties because it covers a larger geographical and populated area.

The DPP also enters plea bargain agreements with lawyers, at their request and after due consideration of the matter, and also provides advice to the Guyana Police Force (GPF), Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), and other Government agencies.
Further, prisoners who are awaiting trial in the High Courts and other parties to a criminal matter can complain to the DPP if they are not satisfied with the Police investigations.
The DPP also receives letters from attorneys-at-law about issues concerning their clients’ cases. The Office of the DPP would take the appropriate action in this regard.
Complaints received on misconduct by members of the Guyana Police Force are sent to the Commissioner of Police for action to be taken by the Office of Professional Responsibility. Complaints can also be made to the Police Complaints Authority for their action.