CJIA senior manager freed of sexual assault charges

The sexual allegations brought against Deputy Chief Executive Officer (DCEO) of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timehri, Andre Kellman, were dropped on Tuesday after the victim refused to present evidence in the matter.

The matter was called before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty but the ex-worker at CJIA informed the court that she does not wish to proceed with the matter and as such, would not offer evidence against the defendant.
Kellman, 54, who is in charge of operations at the airport, was charged last August and appeared before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly where he was not required to plead to the indictable charge.
At that time, the police had stated that on July 30, 2018, at CJIA, Timehri, East Bank Demerara, he sexually assaulted a 34-year-old woman.
The victim had alleged that she was hugged and kissed on her lips by the accused during a visit to his office during working hours.
In her complaint to the police, the woman explained that she went to Kellman’s office to have an issue resolved. As she was leaving, he allegedly walked around his desk to hug her – an act she deemed “inappropriate” but as she pulled away, he allegedly kissed her on the lips.
The victim further stated that as she headed towards the door, Kellman barred her from leaving and again allegedly kissed her.
According to the woman, she left in shock and immediately reported the matter to the airport’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the Human Resources Manager.
After some time had elapsed with no word from management, she decided to make a formal report to the Timehri Police Station.
The incident was quick to make headlines and without any hesitation, the woman’s security pass was revoked.
The airport later confirmed that Kellman was being investigated for sexual misconduct and was sent on administrative leave pending its outcome
Kellman was initially released on station bail. Meanwhile, after the conclusion of the investigations, a file was sent to the DPP, who recommended that charges be instituted against him.
Now, the DECO is cleared of all the allegations made against him.