A 31-year-old taxi driver from Agricola, East Bank Demerara, was granted bail on Wednesday after appearing before Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on a larceny charge.
Isaiah Lall, of Remus Street, Agricola, pleaded not guilty to the allegation that on August 9, at the Avenue of the Republic, Georgetown, he stole two gold bracelets valued at $300,000 from Nicola Craig.
The prosecution opposed bail, emphasising both the seriousness and prevalence of such offences in Georgetown.
Lall, represented by attorney Stacy Goodings, provided his account to the court, explaining that he had been drinking with friends at Stabroek Market when police approached him to enquire about the driver of a vehicle.
Upon confirming the vehicle belonged to him, Lall said he was instructed to report to the Brickdam Police Station. This followed an allegation that a person wearing a red top and cream pants had committed the theft.
Goodings told the court that her client was taken into custody without having any confrontation with the virtual complaint or being placed on an identification parade. She said he had not been contacted by investigators since.
She further noted that on the day in question, many others in the area were dressed in similar colours due to ongoing campaign activities, increasing the possibility of mistaken identity.
“This was an unfortunate situation for my client, who has no previous criminal record,” Goodings said. “He has cooperated fully and is prepared to comply with any conditions the court may impose.”
After hearing submissions from both sides, Magistrate Azore granted Lall bail in the sum of $50,000, stressing the importance of the accused attending all future court proceedings.
The case has been adjourned to September 24 for continuation.
