Sexual offences against minors dominate cases at Essequibo Criminal Assizes

Sexual offences against minors have dominated the list of cases for trial at the February 2023 Essequibo Criminal Assizes which is being held at the High Court in Suddie, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam). Of the 92 cases listed for trial, 37 of them involve persons indicted for cases regarding sexual offences committed against minors. These offences include rape of a child under the age of 16 and sexual activity with a child family member. Thirty persons are listed to be tried for the former offence while eight will face a Judge and jury for the latter offence.
There are another 18 rape cases concerning 19 accused persons.

Ivan Hill also known as “Felonsie” and Antonio Fernando called “Uncle” have each been indicted for three and four counts of rape of a child under 16 years, respectively.
Lloyd Edmond is facing two counts of sexual activity with a child family member and a third count for rape of a child under 16, while Teon Torres c/d “Shortman” has been indicted for one count each of sexual activity with a child family member and rape of a child under 16.
Mark Gobin, Marcus Anthony King, Corwyn Mingo, William Johnson called “Uncle” and Rueben Wilson are each facing a count of rape. Meanwhile, Lancelot Captain, otherwise known as “Junior” and “J” is facing two counts of rape. In addition, William Johnson c/d “Uncle” has been indicted for first count—rape, and second count—assault with intent to commit a felony.
Then there is Larry Hector Johnny, who has to be tried for one charge each for the offence of rape and abduction. Most of the accused persons in the sexual offences matters are males.
The remaining individuals are to be tried for varying offences, ranging from the capital offence of murder, manslaughter, attempt to commit murder, and causing grievous bodily harm.
A total of 15 persons are to be tried for murder and nine for manslaughter. Approximately another dozen individuals are facing indictments for attempt to commit murder.
Included among the murder accused are Joshua Connell, Kirt Beaton, Kishan Brijmohan, Norlando Brown, Christopher Lyte, Nandram Persaud, Orin King, and Ceyon David. Robert Daniels, Donald Hodgson, Adrian Levi and Edward Emanuel are some of the manslaughter accused. (G1)