Labourer slapped with illegal gun charge on $200,000 bail

A 36-year-old labourer was granted bail after appearing in court on Wednesday on charges of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Jason Carmichael, of Lamaha Park, Georgetown appeared before Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.
Carmichael pleaded not guilty to the charges, which alleged that he was found in possession of a .38 revolver and a spent .38 shell without a valid firearm license. Police reported that Carmichael was apprehended on Sunday, during an early morning operation at Lamaha Street.

According to the prosecution, police received a tip-off around 03:10h about a man carrying a firearm in the area. Upon arriving, officers reportedly observed Carmichael holding a revolver. When questioned, he allegedly admitted he was not licensed to carry the weapon. He was subsequently arrested, cautioned, and charged at the Alberttown Police Station.
In court on Wednesday, Carmichael’s attorney, Siand Dhurjon, argued for bail on the grounds that Carmichael had disarmed another man during a confrontation outside the Montra Restaurant & Lounge. The man was reportedly arguing with Carmichael’s partner and had pointed the firearm at her during the altercation. Dhurjon maintained that Carmichael’s actions were taken to protect others and not for criminal purposes.
The prosecution opposed the bail application, emphasizing the seriousness of the offence and its impact on public safety. They argued that the prevalence of unlicensed firearms poses a grave threat to the community. Additionally, the prosecution told the court of Carmichael’s prior criminal record, which includes a previous conviction for possession of narcotics.
The prosecutor also highlighted that during his arrest, Carmichael admitted to receiving the firearm from an unknown “Rasta man” but refused to provide further details about the individual.
After reviewing the submissions, Magistrate Azore ruled in favor of granting bail. Carmichael was ordered to post $150,000 for the unlicensed firearm charge and $50,000 for the possession of illegal ammunition. The court reminded him of the seriousness of the charges and warned that any breach of bail conditions would result in severe consequences.
Carmichael is scheduled to return to court on December 18. (G9)