Vendor remanded on marijuana trafficking charge while on bail for separate, similar matter

A 26-year-old vendor was remanded to prison on Wednesday after bail was refused when he appeared before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty to answer a charge of possession of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking.
Andre James, of Lot 617 Trotman Street, A Field, Sophia, Greater Georgetown, appeared before Magistrate Ashton Lynch in relation to an incident that allegedly occurred on January 21 at Water Street, Georgetown.
James was charged with having 38.6 grams (g) of marijuana in his possession for the purpose of trafficking. He pleaded not guilty to the offence.
During the bail application, the prosecution objected, informing the court that James is before the judiciary for similar narcotics-related matters and was on bail at the time the present offence was allegedly committed. Prosecutors argued that granting bail would raise concerns that the accused could reoffend.
When invited by the court to respond, James told Magistrate McGusty that he had been victimised by a Police officer, whose name he said he did not know but whom he claimed he could identify. He alleged that the officer had been targeting him for some time and had previously threatened that he would ensure James was sent to prison.

James further stated that on the day in question, the Police officer accused him of having marijuana, but nothing was found on his person. He maintained that the narcotics were found on the ground and not on him. He clarified that he was not alleging that the officer planted the drugs but insisted that the marijuana was not found in his possession.
During the proceedings, James also denied the prosecution’s claim that he had multiple similar matters before the court. However, the Magistrate was informed that James had previously appeared before the court for similar offences.
It was reported that on June 7, 2025, James was charged after allegedly being found with 35.6 g of cannabis at the Stabroek Market. In that matter, prosecutors told the court that the narcotics were found on his person and that James admitted it was part of his “side hustle”.
James had pleaded not guilty to that charge, denying the allegations and stating that the drugs were found on a nearby stand and not in his possession. He told the court at the time that he is a vendor who sells cigarettes and tobacco and has no involvement in illegal drugs. Despite the prosecution’s concerns, James was granted bail in the sum of $35,000, and the matter was adjourned.
Additionally, the court was told that James was also granted bail on November 21, 2025, in another similar matter. Magistrate McGusty noted that although the accused continued to deny having multiple cases before the court, the information presented showed that the current charge was allegedly committed while he was on bail.
In refusing bail, Magistrate McGusty expressed concern that his release could result in a repeat of similar offences. As a result, James was remanded to prison and is scheduled to return to court on February 13.