GDF Lance Corporal Kester Bowen was yesterday charged with assaulting and obstructing a peace officer acting in the execution of his duties.
Bowen, 25, appeared before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Wales Magistrates’ Court, where he pleaded not guilty to both charges.
The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard NCO, who was represented by attorney-at-law Glen Hanoman, was granted bail in the sum of $10,000 on each of the two charges.
He is to make his next appearance on November 4th, 2020.
On Wednesday, Stabroek News reported that the soldier who was seen assaulting a police officer at the western end of the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB), pleaded guilty to three traffic charges and was fined on Monday.
He pleaded guilty to the charges that on October 9th, 2020, he drove an uninsured vehicle, that he drove an uncertified vehicle and that he drove a vehicle with prohibited tinted glass.
He was fined a total of $42,500 for the three offences.
Bowen was arrested after his assault on the police officer, who was on duty at the bridge.
The incident occurred around 8pm on Friday and was recorded by other motorists who shared it on social media.
According to a Guyana Police Force report, Constable 24030 Wilson, who was at the time conducting anti-crime patrol duties at the DHB, observed a dark grey car, driven by the GDF Lance Corporal, trying to change lanes. The action of the soldier caused a congestion of traffic, the police said.
As a result, Constable Wilson approached the GDF rank, informed him of the offence committed and instructed him to pull to the corner of the road.
The police report stated that the soldier became annoyed, exited the vehicle and allegedly assaulted Constable Wilson.
Constable Wilson, with the assistance of other ranks, was later successful in arresting Bowen.
The policeman was taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where he was treated and discharged.
