A FATHER of eight was yesterday remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate, Priya Sewnarine-Beharry for unlawful possession of firearm and ammunition charges.Arthur Thorne, 55, of 38 Parika, East Bank Essequibo, pleaded not guilty to both charges, one of which said on Wednesday, December 24, at Torapora, Mazaruni River, he had in his possession one 12 gauge pump action shotgun, when he was not a licensed firearm holder.
Particulars of the other charge said on the same day, at Torapora, Mazaruni, he also had in his possession two 12 gauge cartridges without being the holder of a firearm license.
Representing Thorne was attorney-at-law, Ms. Pamela DeSantos. She made a bail application for her client after informing the court that Thorne is the chairman of a Community Development Council (CDC), a councilor of the Mora / Parika Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) and also the chairman for Parika Small Miners Association.
According to the Prosecution facts, around 06:30 hrs, police received information that someone discharged a firearm in the area. However, ranks carried out a search on three camps, including the camp where Thorne was residing.
The firearm was retrieved and Thorne was arrested and charged with the offence.
Police Prosecutor, Michael Grant opposed bail on the grounds that no special reason was given to the Court by the defence. He indicated that Thorne gave a caution statement that he normally uses the gun.
Bail was refused and the matter was transferred to the Bartica Court for January 8, 2015.