Weeder walks free after paying restitution in stolen motorcycle case

A 35-year-old weeder, Orlando James, of Lot 31 Bent Street, Werk-En-Rust, Georgetown, walked free from the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court last week after he compensated the rightful owner of a stolen motorcycle.
James, a single father of four, appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty, unrepresented by legal counsel, to answer to a charge of simple larceny.
The prosecution alleged that between May 15 and May 16, 2024, he stole a motorcycle valued at $175,000, the property of Shai Stephens from Robb Street, Georgetown.

James, however, pleaded not guilty, maintaining that he had purchased the motorcycle without knowing it was stolen.
The prosecution while objecting to bail, outlined that Stevens had reported his bike missing and later received information that it was spotted at a location on Camp Street. Upon arriving there, Stephens saw James driving the bike toward a wash bay. Recognising his property by its identification number, he immediately contacted the police.
Officers arrived at the scene and arrested James, who initially told them that he had purchased the bike from a child but had no knowledge of the child’s whereabouts.
However, when given the chance to speak in court, he changed his story, stating that he had bought the bike from a man who originally asked for $60,000, but he only had $40,000. The man, he claimed, accepted the lower amount and sold him the motorcycle.
During the proceedings, Stephen informed the Magistrate that while he was able to recover the bike, it was no longer in good condition. The brakes were damaged, and it was not functioning properly.
He estimated that repairs would cost around $40,000 and indicated that he was open to receiving compensation for the damages rather than pursuing further legal action.
James’ family members, who were present in court, quickly provided the $40,000 in cash to Stevens.
Their actions led the Magistrate to address James directly, warning him about the dangers of purchasing vehicles or any high-value items without proper documentation. She emphasised the importance of obtaining receipts and verifying ownership to avoid similar legal troubles in the future.
Acknowledging his mistake, James apologised to Stephen, stating that he had simply seen the bike and purchased it without thinking twice. After the restitution was made, the Magistrate dismissed the case, allowing James to leave without further consequences.