Tensions flare as co-accused denies attempted murder, robbery at City Mall

Pandemonium was narrowly avoided at the High Court on Monday when Police ranks rushed in to settle tensions when co-accused John Caesar almost prevented a jury empanelment before Justice Sandil Kissoon. He is charged along with Marisco George for the July 4, 2009 attempted murder of Dhanmattie Phulchand, who was severely chopped to the head in what was believed to be a robbery at her Reshma’s Collection Store in the City Mall, Georgetown.
According to State Prosecutor Abigail Gibbs, the duo assaulted the woman before or after they robbed her store on the day in question. The duo however denied the charges. Upon Caesar’s arraignment, he openly accused State Counsel Mandell Moore of offering him a plea deal moments before the trial commenced.
However, both prosecutors denied any such involvement. Moore immediately addressed the court, including all potential jurors and rejected the assertion the accused made. Justice Kissoon then restored order but not before Caesar shouted “Freedom” several times, adding that the Judge should listen to what he was saying.
The Judge was having none of it and proceeded to empanel the 12 member-jury which comprise only males after Marisco George’s Attorney, Damien DaSilva requested changes. Caesar earlier had no representation but Attorney Brandon De Santos accepted the case prompting Caesar to say he was sent an angel.
Justice Kissoon admonished the jurors to disregard all of what transpired during Monday’s proceedings, telling them to focus on the evidence presented in the four walls of the court room. The matter was adjourned for Wednesday.