St Lucian national, co-accused seek settlement as court again refuses bail

A 19-year-old St Lucian national, charged along with a Guyanese for a violent armed robbery and attempted murder, was again denied bail on Tuesday, as both accused signalled their intention to pursue a settlement with the virtual complainant.
Condoleezza Henry, who is jointly charged with Guyanese Kristoff Nicholas, appeared virtually before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. Her attorney, Felicia Douglas of the Legal Aid Clinic, renewed an application for bail, which was refused. Nicholas was represented by attorney Travis Ferreira.
During the proceedings, the court was informed that both accused, through their attorneys, are seeking to settle certain matters with the virtual complainant, Claudius Fraser, a 69-year-old operations manager who was allegedly shot during the June 20 armed robbery. Fraser reportedly indicated a willingness to accept compensation.
Magistrate McGusty made it clear that any settlement discussions could only apply to the indictable charges of attempted murder and robbery under arms. She stressed that the remaining charges, escape from lawful custody and illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, will continue against both Henry and Nicholas. The magistrate noted that the defence had clearly identified the specific charges for which settlement was being pursued.
The court heard that Fraser is prepared to accept $300,000 from each accused, totalling $600,000, in relation to the attempted murder and robbery under arms charges. However, Magistrate McGusty directed that Fraser must first provide a formal statement to the court before any payment is made. She also acknowledged the prosecution’s request for an adjournment to February 4 to facilitate full disclosure and the completion of statements.
In advancing Henry’s bail application, Douglas argued that her client was not a flight risk, noting that Henry is a registered citizen of Guyana and is in possession of a birth certificate and other supporting documentation. The magistrate, however, rejected the submission, citing the seriousness of the offences, public safety concerns, and the circumstances surrounding Nicholas’ case.
Magistrate McGusty pointed out that Nicholas, a Guyanese citizen, is facing multiple charges and is currently incarcerated, questioning why bail should be granted to Henry under similar circumstances. Nicholas’ own bail application was also refused.
Henry and Nicholas are accused of participating in the June 20 armed robbery during which Fraser was shot in the chest. Although Fraser was discharged from hospital, the court was told that a bullet remains lodged in his chest and that he was required to undergo surgery.
Both accused remain on remand as the matters continue. The cases are scheduled to be called again on February 4.