Accused gold chain snatcher remanded

A 30-year-old labourer was remanded to prison on Friday after being charged with the theft of a gold chain valued at $60,000. Christopher Benn appeared before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, where he was charged with snatching a four-pennyweight gold chain from Asmma Ali on September 3 at Cornhill Street, Stabroek, Georgetown.
He denied the simple larceny offence. Police Prosecutor Seon Williams objected to bail, citing the seriousness of the offence and the fact that the stolen chain remains missing. Williams further emphasised that Benn poses a potential flight risk, as he was unable to provide the same address, he initially gave police upon his arrest.
According to the prosecution, Benn allegedly approached Ali around midday while she was seated inside a route 42 minibus near a window. He reportedly snatched the chain from her neck and fled in the direction of Stabroek Market. Though Ali and nearby witnesses gave chase, Benn managed to escape.
After a month-long investigation, police, acting on information received, arrested Benn on October 2. While the gold chain was not recovered, Ali was invited to the station where she allegedly positively identified Benn as the man who stole her chain.
Given the nature of the offence and the concerns surrounding Benn’s inconsistent address, Magistrate McGusty denied bail and ordered his remand. Benn is scheduled to return to court on October 25.