A DUO made their appearance before Chief Magistrate, Priya Sewnarine-Beharry yesterday to answer simple larceny and receiving stolen property charges. Thirty-one-year-old mechanic, Derwin Freeman of Blueberry Hill, Wismar, Linden, pleaded not guilty to the charge that said between February 1 and 22 at Arangoy Backdam, Cuyuni River, he stole one 6 cylinder Caterpillar engine to the value of $3.5M, property of Ricardo Seelall.
Meanwhile, Henry DaSilva, his alleged accomplice, denied that between February 1 and 22 at Arangoy Backdam, he received one 6 cylinder Caterpillar engine to the value of $3.5M from Freeman, knowing same to be stolen.
Police Prosecutor Bharat Mangru informed the court that Seelall received $1M from DaSilva regarding the matter and will no longer proceed with the charge against him. However, as it relates to the other accused, Seelall will be proceeding against him, since he did not receive any payment from Freeman.
Seelall gave sworn testimony that he was not forced or threatened by anyone to make the decision with regards to the matter for DaSilva.
Freeman was represented by attorney-at-law, Mr. Dexter Todd and the latter was represented by attorney-at-law, Mr. Melville Duke.
Defence lawyer Todd requested bail for his client on the grounds that he does not have any prior and pending matter.
The father of six minor children was ordered to report to ‘F’ Division Headquarters every fortnight, commencing on March 20 and the matter was transferred to Bartica Court for March 27.