A CONSTRUCTION worker of Lot 164 East Ruimveldt, Georgetown was yesterday sentenced to two years’ imprisonment by Magistrate Ann McLennan for robbery under arms and attempt to commit a felony charges. 

Neil Clarke made his first appearance before Chief Magistrate, Priya Sewnarine-Beharry on January 20 and pleaded not guilty to both offences, one of which said on January 06 at Middle and Carmichael Streets, Georgetown, while in the company of another and being armed with a knife, he robbed Lakeram Rooplall, a police officer stationed at the Special Branch, of one cellular phone, DL900, valued $27,000, a $1,200 wallet and $5,000 cash.
The other charge said on the same day at Middle and Carmichael Streets, while being together with another and armed with a knife, he attempted to commit a felony, that is to say he attempted to rob Delroy Griffith.

The trial was conducted before city Magistrate McLennan and six witnesses were called to testify on behalf of the prosecution. The unrepresented man was convicted on both charges.
On his first court appearance, Police Prosecutor, Michael Grant told the court that around 12:30 hrs that day, the two were at the Promenade Gardens when Clarke and an accomplice, being armed with knives, approached them and placed the weapons to their necks.

Grant said they managed to relieve Rooplall of his possessions but as they tried to rob Griffith, public spirited citizens came to their rescue. They escaped but the matter was reported to the Brickdam Police Station.