Ex-Police officer on bail for firearm, ammo possession
Lloyd Roberts, a 43-year-old former police officer was on Friday granted bail by Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty for the illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition. He appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court where the charges were read to him.
Police stated that on November 14, 2024, Roberts had one Glock 19mm pistol and 18 rounds of 9mm ammunition along Robb Street, Georgetown.
Roberts, who resides at North Ruimveldt, Georgetown, pleaded not guilty to both charges.
Roberts’ lawyer argued that the firearm and ammunition were planted by police officers during his arrest. According to his attorney, Roberts had been at a bank on Robb Street conducting business when he was detained by officers.
It was claimed that the items were only shown to him after he was taken to the police station.
The lawyer also highlighted Roberts’ history as the target of a recent assassination attempt. In August 2024, Roberts was reportedly ambushed on Durban Street and sustained gunshot wounds to the face, abdomen, and hip.
While the defence claimed that the injuries left Roberts with ongoing medical issues, no evidence or medical records were presented to substantiate this assertion.
The prosecution opposed the bail application, pointing to Roberts’ prior brushes with the law, including accusations of involvement in three murders between 2009 and 2016. The prosecution argued that Roberts posed a public safety risk and suggested that no “special reasons” warranted his release on bail.
Additionally, the prosecution stated that during his arrest, Roberts admitted he did not have a licence for the firearm allegedly found in his possession.
After reviewing the arguments, Magistrate McGusty granted bail in the sum of $200,000 on each charge. As a condition of his bail, Roberts must report to the Brickdam Police Station on the last Friday of each month. The case has been adjourned to December 6, 2024.
Roberts’ history with the legal system is well-documented. In 2009, he was charged with the double murder of Romeo De Agrella and his son, Clint. However, the charges were dismissed in 2010 due to insufficient evidence.
In 2016, Roberts was implicated in the murder of Ryan Sergeant, a 19-year-old who was shot outside a nightclub in Georgetown. He was also charged with illegal possession of firearms and ammunition in connection with that case.
According to the police, Roberts was arrested following a tip-off. Officers reportedly observed him near Republic Bank on Robb Street, where a search allegedly uncovered the firearm and ammunition concealed in his clothing. Roberts was arrested on-site, and the items were secured as evidence before he was taken to the Brickdam Police Station for processing.
Investigations are ongoing, and Roberts’ upcoming court appearance will determine how the charges against him proceed.