Dredge operator Oswald Leacock, accused of the murder of Earle Austin, who was tied to a tree and severely beaten to death, was yesterday remanded to prison.
Appearing before acting Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, Leacock was not required to plead to the capital offence when it was read to him.
The man, whose address was given as Lot 6 First Avenue, Bartica, is alleged to have murdered Austin on July 11, at 14 Miles Issano. He was one of three men who investigators have identified as suspects in the murder. The others are still being sought.
Prosecutor Stephen Telford said that on the day in question, Austin, who had reportedly stolen a chain saw and two mattresses from the men, was tied to a tree and beaten until he died.
The unrepresented Leacock, who was given a chance to speak, said that he was nowhere around at the time of the alleged incident and is innocent of the charge levelled against him.
The matter was transferred to the Bartica Magistrates’ Court for July 28.
Austin, 37, of Nabaclis, East Coast Demerara, sustained numerous injuries to the head and other parts of his body along with broken limbs, as a result of the beating.
