-incident stemmed from breach of turn system at Stabroek Square
A man was yesterday sentenced to three years’ imprisonment for felonious wounding.
Andrew Vieira, a taxi driver, appeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court, where the charge was read to him.
It was alleged that on May 21, at Brickdam, Georgetown, he maliciously wounded Charles De Jong with intent to maim, disfigure, disable, or cause grievous bodily harm.
Vieira pleaded guilty with an explanation, telling the court that he was on his way home from work when he was approached by De Jong. He said that he was seated in his car with his seatbelt in place when De Jong approached him and punched him. Vieira stated that he had no idea why De Jong took such action. He also claimed to have been stabbed by De Jong, prompting him to attempt an escape from his car to prevent further injury.
When De Jong was given the chance to speak, he explained what transpired that weekend in May 2023. He explained that he is a short-drop taxi driver who operates at the Stabroek Market Square. He stated that there is a turn system by which the taxis operate, and noted that on Saturday, May 20, 2023, he was next in line for his car to accept passengers when Vieira, in an attempt to bully his way through, loaded his car before De Jong and drove off. De Jong mentioned that this was not the first time such an incident had occurred and out of frustration – feeling the pressure of maintaining a family and paying bills – he punched Vieira in the face, leading to a scuffle and a police report.
On the following day, De Jong recounted that while at the park, he was sitting in his car with his hand placed above the window when he suddenly felt a sharp sting. Upon examination, he realised his hand was cut so deeply that the bone was nearly visible. He then provided the court with photographs of the injury.
Magistrate McGusty questioned Vieira about whether he had ever attempted to make a police report following the initial altercation, to which Vieira admitted he had not. De Jong interjected, explaining that police had made numerous attempts to contact Vieira, but he consistently evaded them. It was only through the efforts of De Jong and his girlfriend that the police were able to track Vieira down and have him arrested.
Upon inspecting the photos, Magistrate McGusty noted De Jong’s injuries and Vieira’s efforts to evade the police, which suggested premeditation. Taking all factors into account, she sentenced Vieira to three years’ imprisonment. (Mia Anthony)
