PHILBERT Cush, a 53-year-old man of Broad Street, who works in the interior as an excavator operator, was, on Tuesday, March 10, 2020, sentenced to 18 months in prison, having been found guilty of larceny.

Cush admitted that, on Wednesday, February 26, 2020, on Robb Street, Georgetown, he stole, from Rhonda Harry, an iPhone 11 Pro Max valued at $260,000.

According to the report, on the day in question, February 26, at 48 Robb Street, Georgetown, Harry was at her clothing store cleaning and had the phone on a table when the accused entered and began to inquire about clothing prices. After his inquiries, Cush picked up Harry’s cellular phone and went away. Harry reported the matter and an investigation was launched.

On Friday, March 6, 2020, the accused was seen on High Street by officers on patrol. He was arrested and taken to the Brickdam Police Station. He was identified by Harry. The allegation was then put to him and he admitted. He was then placed in custody and charged for the offence.

The prosecutor informed the court that the phone was not found in Cush’s possession. He added that the accused sold the cellular phone at Stabroek Market.

When Cush was asked to explain his act by Chief Magistrate McLennan, he stated to the court that he was in great need for the money because he had his two children to take care of. He also mentioned, that because he was diagnosed with malaria for a while, it affected his receipt of income from the interior.

Cush was questioned about the sale on the phone. He stated to the court that he sold the phone for $8,000.

Cush, in attempt to defend himself, mentioned to the court saying “I really don’t steal and dem thing. I does wuk very hard. I get two chiren fuh mine.”

Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, after hearing the case, sentenced Cush to 18 months in prison.