Josie Hopkinson, of Perry Street, Tucville, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on Wednesday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, charged with simple larceny.

It is alleged that Hopkinson on November 7 at Sheriff Street stole a handbag, a Samsung cellphone, passport and cash –total value $238,000 property of Lestra Crandon, wife of Guyanese cricket, Royston Crandon.

The unrepresented 28-year-old denied the charge while explaining to the court that he is wrongfully accused.

According to Hopkinson he had entered the Subs and Salad, Sheriff Street food eatery with a female friend to purchase something to drink. However, while exiting the said place Crandon stormed inside claiming she was just robbed.

The man further pointed out that one of the cashiers had pointed out that he was involved in the robbery since he was on his phone and acting suspicious while in Subs and Salad.

“I didn’t pay them no mind I continue walking when a tint up black car with police come up behind me and start lick fire,” Hopkinson told the court.  The man further alleged that he was beaten by the police while in custody.

Police Prosecutor, Inspector Neville Jeffers did not disclose the facts in court but explained that the items were found in a car that the accused was seated in.

“Your worship I took a taxi I didn’t been in no car,” Hopkinson said as he replied to the prosecutor claims.

Prosecutor Jeffers strongly opposed to bail on the grounds that more charges of similar in nature will soon be laid against the defendant since he is being investigated by the police in other matters.

The Magistrate refused bail and the man is scheduled to make his next court appearance on November 18.