Accused of stealing $400 from a fellow ex-convict during a mugging, Orlando Lawrence was yesterday placed on $100,000 bail.
But Lawrence of 634 West Ruimveldt explained to Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry that he had given his friend, Sherwin Clarks, money and his bicycle to purchase something for him to eat. However, after three hours of waiting Clarks never returned, he said.
The man further said that he had gone into town where he saw Clarks and approached him, enquiring about his money and his bicycle. He was informed that the bicycle had been stolen and nothing had been bought. Though Lawrence admitted to having a confrontation with Clarks, he denied ever having robbed the man.
Prosecutor Michael Grant presented a much different version of the events. According to Grant, both parties were known to each other from prison. Grant said Clarks was behind the fire station in the Stabroek Market area when the defendant went up to him, placed a knife to his neck and took the $400 from his breast pocket. Clarks later reported the matter at the Stabroek Market Outpost, Grant added.
Lawrence furiously objected to the prosecutor’s claims and asserted that armed the robbery charge against him was instituted wrongfully. On the ground of the seriousness of the alleged offence, Prosecutor Grant objected to the man’s bail.
Magistrate Sewnarine-Beharry granted the miner $100,000 bail on the condition that he reported every two weeks to the Brickdam Police Station, starting from March 28.
After the bail was announced, Lawrence said that he could not afford such a heavy bail.
However, the Chief Magistrate noted that though the allegedly stolen sum was only $400, armed robbery was nevertheless a serious offence.
Lawrence will make his next appearance on April 11 for statements.
