Police sought DPP’s advice in over 3000 cases in 2023

In 2023, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) sent 3452 files to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), which provided legal advice in all of those cases. The year-end figures that the DPP’s Office made public on Friday revealed this.
The offences included in the files over the year have included financial crimes, robberies with weapons, possession of illegal firearms and ammunition, sexual offences, murder, manslaughter, and possession of narcotics with the intent to traffic.

In addition to the GPF, the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) and other government organisations receive legal counsel from the DPP’s office.
Presenting indictments in criminal sessions in the High Courts of Demerara, Berbice, and Essequibo is one of the DPP’s duties, among others.
During these criminal sessions, one or more state counsel would be assigned to prosecute the cases listed to be heard by the sitting trial Judges. There are four assizes for the year in the county of Demerara and three assizes each in the counties of Berbice and Essequibo. Demerara usually has more cases than the other counties because it covers a larger geographical and populated area. It includes Georgetown, East Coast of Demerara, East Bank of Demerara, West Coast of Demerara, West Bank of Demerara, Linden, Rupununi, and North West District.
The courts in all three counties sit nearly simultaneously during these assizes. The DPP also enters plea bargain agreements with lawyers at their request and after due consideration of the matter.
Further, prisoners who are awaiting trial in the High Courts and other parties to a criminal matter can complain to the DPP if they are not satisfied with the Police investigations.
The DPP also receives letters from attorneys-at-law about issues concerning their clients’ cases. The Office of the DPP would take the appropriate action.
Complaints received on misconduct by members of the Police Force are sent to the Commissioner of Police for action to be taken by the Office of Professional Responsibility.
Complaints can also be made to the Police Complaints Authority for their action. (G1)