Andrew Smith, the fugitive who police say was shot during a shootout with ranks in Sophia, was yesterday faced with five charges, including firing a loaded gun at three police officers.
The courtroom of Magistrate Zamilla Ally-Seepaul heard that on August 4, at ‘C’ Field, Sophia, Smith, 38, of Sophia, had in his possession a .32 revolver without being a licensed firearm holder. The court also heard that he had four matching rounds of ammunition.
Smith was also read three counts of discharging a loaded firearm with intent to maim disfigure, disable or to cause grievous bodily harm to police officers Corwin Bourne, Collin Ross, Elfannando Newman, who were acting in execution of their duty.
Smith, who was represented by attorney Nigel Anthony, pleaded not guilty to the five charges when they were read to him by the magistrate.
According to Prosecutor David Goodridge, the police, acting on information, went to Smith’s home and they saw the suspect, who was identified by their informant. As the police exited the vehicle, Smith allegedly drew the gun from his crotch and started firing at the officers.
Goodridge added that Smith started to run away while firing his gun but the police returned fire, hitting him to his chest. According to Goodridge, the accused was then rushed immediately to the Georgetown Public Hospital.
Smith’s lawyer requested that his client be placed on bail, while noting that he still requires hospital care. The magistrate, however, denied the request for bail and remanded Smith to prison until September 14, when the matter will be called again for report.
Sophia residents have challenged the police’s account of the circumstances under which Smith was shot. Residents told this newspaper that Smith did not discharge any round at the officers and that he was shot while running away from police.
