JAMES Hunte, called “Dougla,” was sentenced to eight years imprisonment by Justice Navindra Singh in the High Court on Wednesday after he pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter.The indictment stated that on March 20, 2012, at Le Ressouvenir, East Coast Demerara, Hunte unlawfully killed Andy Hunte, his two-month-old son. Hunte expressed remorse for his action on Wednesday when he was asked to address the court. Justice Singh took this into consideration and deducted five years from the sentence for time served in prison.

Justice Singh however told Hunte to use the time in jail to reform and equip himself with a trade so that when he is freed, he would be able to contribute to society in a meaningful way. The trial Judge also spoke of Hunte’s good behaviour in prison; based on his record, he may become eligible for parole.

The High Court Judge believes that Hunte regretted his course of action on the day in question when he killed his infant child during a row with his then reputed wife. As such, Justice Singh reprimanded Hunte for losing his temper, which caused the death of his child, but took into consideration that he (Hunte) took the injured baby to the hospital.

State Prosecutor, Tuanna Hardy, in her submission to the court said that Hunte’s reputed wife was sitting at a shop on the day in question, holding her baby, when the accused arrived and a heated argument ensued.

She related that the accused then took off his belt and fired a lash in the direction of the woman, but it connected with the baby’s head, causing severe injuries. The infant died the same day at the hospital. Hunte was represented by Attorney George Thomas. (Michel Outridge)