MOHAN Basdeo, called ‘Latta’, has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter.

Yesterday, before Justice Jo-Ann Barlow, he was sentenced to 13 years’ imprisonment for the October 21, 2010 murder of his reputed wife, Nafeeza (only name given).

Justice Barlow started the sentencing at a base of 25 years, from which she deducted 7.5 years for time served, and 4.5 years due to the plea.

State prosecutor Siand Dhurjon presented the facts in evidence to the court. He said Basdeo stabbed Nafeeza in the back while she was holding one of their three children in her arms during a domestic quarrel. She was trying to escape in the kitchen of their home.

Dhurjon urged the court to take a strong posture against such domestic violence.

The case was presented by state prosecutors Siand Dhurjon and Shawnette Austin, while the Defence Counsel was Maxwell McKay.