US-based man granted bail on gun possession charge

Regarding the accusation of unlawful firearm possession, a 52-year-old US-based man made a virtual reappearance before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts last week before acting Chief Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus. He was given $150,000 bail.
Neil Dutchin was remanded to prison at his initial court appearance on October 11.
It is alleged that on October 8, 2023, at Church Street in Georgetown, he had in his possession a Taurus pistol without being the holder of a firearm licence.

Defence counsel Nigel Hughes filed a new bail request on Dutchin’s behalf, arguing that his client should not be further detained since he continues to experience pain from a gunshot wound that was received years ago.
He said if Dutchin does not receive proper care, his health can be affected in the long run. Hughes stated that Dutchin must regularly see his doctor.
On October 8, 2023, Police ranks were on mobile patrol on Church Street, Georgetown, when they observed a black Toyota Tacoma bearing registration number GAD 8333 parked in the centre of Church Street between East and Cummings Streets, Georgetown.
The patrol ranks approached the vehicle and observed three men: Jiomide Moreno, a 40-year-old labourer, seated in the back passenger seat; Brian Rochan, a 31-year-old vendor, seated in the front passenger seat; and Dutchin, who was the driver inside the Tacoma.
The ranks asked the men to exit the vehicle, and a search was conducted on Moreno and Rochan, but nothing illegal was found. One of the ranks proceeded to search Dutchin, and one black Taurus 9mm pistol with the serial number filed off and without ammunition was found in his crotch.
Dutchin was asked if he was the holder of a firearm licence, and he replied, saying “No”. Consequently, he was then told of the offence committed, cautioned and remained silent.