THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) has taken decisive action against Rickford Burke, issuing a series of Wanted Bulletins and filing charges related to multiple offences.
The latest development involves the serving of defendant summons in the United States, marking a significant step in pursuing legal action against Burke.

On December 3, 2021, the Guyana Police Force issued a Wanted Bulletin for Rickford Burke, citing offences under various acts, including the Racial Hostility Act, Cyber Crime Act, and Criminal Law Offences Act. Subsequently, on September 29, 2022, another Wanted Bulletin was issued in connection with Conspiracy to Commit a Felony under the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, Chapter 8:01.

Charges were formally filed on August 18, 2023, at the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court for the aforementioned offence. However, Burke, who resides in the United States, was notably absent from court proceedings. In response, the Magistrate ordered the preparation of ‘defendant summons’ to compel Burke’s attendance on March 28, 2024.

In compliance with the court order, two defendant summonses were prepared, and on December 13, 2023, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Rodwell Sarabo of the Guyana Police Force traveled to the United States with the summons.

On December 16, 2023, ASP Sarabo, in collaboration with Process Server Mark Wesserman, served both defendant summons at Burke’s residence on Maple Street, Brooklyn, New York. Burke acknowledged understanding the content of the summons.

The Guyana Police Force emphasises that this course of action against individuals residing outside the jurisdiction will be replicated as needed to address criminal conduct. This move underscores the commitment of law enforcement to pursue justice, regardless of the geographical location of the accused. The legal proceedings against Rickford Burke serve as a precedent for future cases involving individuals engaging in criminal activities beyond the borders of Guyana.