A man, who was charged with possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking, was yesterday sentenced to three years imprisonment along with a $10,000 fine after appearing before acting Chief Masgistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.
It is alleged that on March 4 at Soesdyke-Linden High-way, Ramchanand Persaud, who initially pleaded guilty but later changed his plea to not guilty, had in his possession 50 grammes of cannabis.
Police Corporal Venetta Pindar, prosecuting, told the court that police ranks were on patrol on the highway about 18:15 hours when the accused was seen acting in a suspicious manner. The man was searched and the illegal substance was found. The man was later arrested and charged.
Magistrate Sewnarine-Beharry asked the defendant if he uses drugs and the man responded “No, Madam.” She then questioned why he had it and he said “for asthma.” The man continued to say that the drug was “in the camp”. However, when she firmly asked “Did you have control over it? Was it yours?” The man said “yes”.
Persaud was then read his sentence.
