Cleveland Cross and Abiel Rodrigues yesterday appeared at the Georgetown Magistrate’s court before Magistrate Rhondel Weever charged with possession of a firearm while not being the owners of a firearm licence and robbery under arms.
The duo was charged for armed robbery allegedly committed at the Lucky Central Supermarket.
It is alleged that on November 20, 2023 while together and in the company of others at Lot 1057 Aubrey Barker Road and armed with a gun they robbed Nkosi Sancho of one 63 Taurus pistol valued $375,000, property of Kwame Gundal. It was further alleged that on the day in question they attempted to commit robbery under arms at the Lucky Central Supermarket. They both pleaded not guilty to the charges. Meanwhile, the prosecution objected to bail and asked the court to consider the nature and gravity of the offence along with the penalty. The prosecution further informed the court that the police is in possession of several pieces of evidence including video footage and caution statements implicating the defendants and asked the court to consider the seriousness of the offence.
The prosecution also revealed that Rodrigues, who told the magistrate that he was at home with his wife and that he is being wrongfully accused, is presently before the court charged with a similar offence in a separate matter and that he, Rodrigues, is no stranger to the police as he has a habit of committing offences while on bail and breaching court orders and imposed bail conditions. Cross’s defence attorney, meanwhile, told Magistrate Weever that his client was not seen in the video footage, and that Cross was beaten and tortured and was denied food and water while in police custody. Cross’ attorney requested reasonable bail and informed the court that his client is willing to submit his passport and make checks with the police when needed. The attorney also told the magistrate that Cross’ family will endure considerable hardship as Cross is their sole breadwinner. The magistrate remanded both defendants to prison and the matter was adjourned to December 28, 2023 for exhibits and statements.
