GPL linesman charged for assaulting ex-lover during confrontation

A 60-year-old linesman attached to the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) was on Wednesday charged with assaulting a female police officer during a reported altercation at North Ruimveldt last month.

Orwin Drakes of Lot 2427 North Ruimveldt, Georgetown, appeared before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, where he was arraigned on a charge of assault causing actual bodily harm.
He pleaded not guilty to the offence, which allegedly occurred on March 10 at North Ruimveldt. The victim has been identified as Valoma Simpson, a serving member of the Guyana Police Force (GPF).
During the bail hearing, Drakes’ attorney informed the court that his client is divorced, has no prior convictions, and has a fixed place of abode. The attorney also stated that Drakes has been cooperating fully with investigators and has attended court multiple times since the matter was reported.
The prosecution did not oppose bail but noted that the accused and the complainant are known to each other and were previously in a relationship. While they no longer reside together, the prosecution requested that both parties be placed on a bond to maintain the peace.
According to the prosecution’s account, Simpson reportedly approached Drakes to inquire about a matter when the confrontation escalated. It is alleged that during the exchange, Drakes pushed the policewoman into a nearby drain, causing her injuries.
In response, Drakes’ attorney claimed that his client was the one who had been assaulted during the encounter.
Magistrate McGusty granted Drakes $20,000 bail and placed both parties on a bond to keep the peace pending the outcome of the case.
The matter was adjourned to a later date.