RONALDO Chapman, also known as “Packie”, has been sentenced to 26 years in prison by the Demerara High Court for raping a woman at gunpoint.

The 25-year-old, formerly of Half Mile, Wismar, Linden, was convicted on two counts of rape by a mixed 12-member jury.

The attack occurred on March 14, 2023, following a violent confrontation between Chapman and the victim’s boyfriend. After striking the boyfriend with a gun and chasing him away, Chapman sexually assaulted the woman. Chapman, already wanted for other crimes, was apprehended by police after a gunfight in Wisroc, Linden, which resulted in the death of another man.

Justice Jo Ann Barlow, who presided over the trial, considered the gravity of the offence and the impact on the victim before sentencing Chapman last Thursday to 26 years for each count of rape, to be served concurrently.

The judge also mandated Chapman to undergo rehabilitation programmes during his incarceration.

Chapman has prior convictions, including for narcotics trafficking. This convict was also previously charged for having an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.