A man accused of multiple offences involving firearms was yesterday sentenced to 24 months in prison, after pleading guilty to two of the charges and will return to court next month for continuation of the others.
When Lloyd Gittens, 26, appeared before Magistrate Fabayo Azore at the Georgetown Magistrates Court yesterday, he was accused of discharging a loaded firearm at Odel Thomas and at Police Constable Elijah Vichara on September 16, 2024, at D’Andrade Street, Newtown, Kitty.
According to the facts of another charge, Gittens, while armed with a gun, robbed Joshua Holder of two gold diamond-encrusted chains valued at $620,000, on September 6, 2024.
Before entering a plea on the first charge, Gittens insisted on explaining himself to the court. He told the magistrate that a $5 million bounty had been placed on his life, and that he mistook Thomas for the person behind the threat. According to his account, when Thomas entered his yard, he fired in self-defence. Magistrate Azore entered a not guilty plea on his behalf.
He pleaded not guilty to firing at a police officer on the same day as well to the armed robbery charge.
However, Gittens admitted guilt to charges of illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.
The prosecution objected to bail, citing the seriousness and nature of the offences. Consequently, Gittens was remanded to prison on the charges to which he pleaded not guilty and sentenced to 24 months in prison for the charges he admitted to.
He is scheduled to return to court on November 11, 2024, for further statements.
