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Tag: Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions

Princes Town couple get 29 yrs for ex-fireman's murder

A PRINCES TOWN couple who killed the woman’s previous abusive boyfriend have been sentenced to a total of 29 years for their roles in the businessman’s murder.

Dwayne Baldeo and Renee Mohammed were sentenced by Justice Mauricia Joseph-Patrick in the San Fernando High Court for the October 28, 2020, murder of Christopher Hosein.

Hosein, 45, a businessman, who resigned from the Fire Service about ten years ago, lived at St James Street in Princes Town. There, he ran his business, Expert Fire and Safety Ltd. A farmer found his burnt body near his burnt Kia Sorento in a gravel road off the M1 Tasker Road in the Ste Madeleine police district. A yellow rope was tied around Hosein’s neck, his hands were bound, and his eyes were covered with duct tape.

Police investigations quickly focused on Baldeo and Mohammed after CCTV footage, witness accounts, and forensic evidence linked them to Hosein’s apartment. A white Toyota Fielder wagon driven by Baldeo was intercepted later that day, and items belonging to the deceased were recovered. A post-mortem examination determined that Hosein died from a combination of asphyxia, inhalation of soot, burns, and blunt force trauma to the head.

Baldeo and Mohammed both pleaded guilty to murder on the basis of felony murder under a plea agreement with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

The agreement followed their indictment on June 18, 2024, for Hosein’s murder of Hosein. In sentencing the two, Justice Joseph-Patrick adopted a starting point of 33 years’ imprisonment for both. Baldeo benefited from a downward adjustment of three years for his conduct while incarcerated. A further one-third reduction was applied for his guilty plea, amounting to ten years. After also taking into account time already spent on remand of almost five years, Joseph-Patrick imposed a final sentence of a little over 15 years’ imprisonment.

Baldeo was represented by Rajiv Persad, SC, and Ajesh Summesar.

Dwayne Baldeo. – Photo courtesy TTPS

Mohammed’s starting point was also reduced by three years for remorse and positive conduct in prison. An additional one-year reduction was granted in light of her background, personal history, and immaturity at the time of the offence. She was 23 at the time. A further one-third reduction for her guilty plea, amounting to nine years and eight months,was applied. After credit for time spent in custody, Mohammed received a final sentence of slightly over 14 years’ imprisonment.

She was represented by attorneys Michelle Ali and Kameika Peters of the Public Defenders’ Department.

In an affidavit placed before the court, Mohammed described a deeply troubled personal history, including childhood sexual abuse and a turbulent, on-and-off relationship with Hosein. She said aspects of that relationship caused past trauma to resurface and contributed to her emotional state at the time.

Mohammed admitted she and Baldeo were also in a tumultuous relationship. He helped her and her mother financially and with errands. She said it was never her intuition to lead him on, but she now realises she was wrong for entertaining his advances. She detailed incidents in which she alleged he had previously assaulted her, leading to serious injuries and extended hospitalisation.

According to Mohammed, after her release from hospital she moved in with Hosein due to her physical condition and financial dependence. She said she also suffered abuse by Hosein while recovering from her injuries.

She claimed that she later disclosed her experiences to Baldeo, who offered to “rough up” Hosein. She admitted accepting that offer and helping to plan the encounter, but maintained that she did not intend or expect Hosein to die.

“I understand that I was a party in the act that caused the deceased to die,” Mohammed stated, “but I had no intention or knowledge that he was going to die.”

She described the past five years in custody as “a nightmare” and expressed remorse for her actions.

 

Couva man gets 14 years for 2020 shooting death

A Couva man has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for the death of a fellow villager who earlier threatened his girlfriend and her father and later provoked him, leading him to pull out a gun, shooting and killing him in 2020.

Justin Heeraman was sentenced by Justice Nalini Singh on November 18. Heeraman previously pleaded guilty to manslaughter by provocation after entering into plea discussions with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions on the indictment for the April 29, 2020, murder of David Ramkissoon at Greig Street, Couva.

The judge said Heeraman’s response of firing multiple shots from inside his vehicle exceeded what was necessary even in the face of genuine and escalating threats.

Heeraman, who originally faced a murder charge, pleaded guilty to manslaughter by reason of provocation after the State accepted a plea deal. He will serve eight years and six months after receiving credit for five years and six months spent in pre-sentence custody.

According to the agreed facts, Ramkissoon threatened Heeraman’s partner and her father earlier on April 29, 2020, violently shaking their gate and promising to harm them. Minutes later, he returned with another man, prompting her to call Heeraman to take her to the Couva Police Station.

As Heeraman drove toward the station, he turned into Greig Street, where Ramkissoon blocked his path, exited his car and shouted threats while approaching Heeraman’s driver-side door. Heeraman then drew a firearm and fired several rounds, killing Ramkissoon. Seven spent casings were later recovered at the scene.

Justice Singh began with a 23-year starting point, citing the seriousness of using a firearm in a residential area and firing multiple rounds at close range. She noted that although the provocation was substantial, it was not extreme, and Heeraman’s response “went well beyond what was necessary to neutralise immediate harm.”

She applied a downward adjustment for Heeraman’s positive rehabilitative record, strong family support and lack of violent history. Singh then applied a full one-third reduction for the guilty plea, which avoided trial and additional trauma for the victim’s family.

In delivering the sentence, Singh said the final term was appropriately proportionate, and aligned with parity and rehabilitation, while properly denouncing firearm-enabled unlawful killing.

Heeraman’s sentence begins immediately.

Colin Elbourne and Aleena Ramjag represented Heeraman while Sheldon Noreiga, Cassie Bisram and Afeisha Williams represented the State.

New Grant villager charged with double murder after deadly fire

ALMOST two years after an elderly woman and her 63-year-old special needs son died in a fire that gutted their home in New Grant, a villager has been charged with double murder.

On November 17, Geewan Jagessar, 46, of School Trace, appeared in the High Court (South Court B) before Master Kimitria Gray, charged with the murders of Surujdai Soogrim, 92, and her son Boysie “Boya” Sonnyboy.

The charges allege that on December 10, 2023, Jagessar poured a flammable substance on the home of the mother and son, also from School Trace, and set it ablaze while they were inside.

Both victims died in the fire.

Attorneys Subhas Panday and Kiran Panday represented the accused, while legal officer Cpl Reagan Ramanan prosecuted during the hearing.

PC Flavenny of the Homicide Bureau of Investigations, Region Three, laid the charges after consulting with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Jagessar was detained by police last week.

The case was adjourned to May 26, 2026.

Rajaee Ali served with SoE detention order

MURDER accused and suspected gang leader Rajaee Ali has been served with a preventative detention order under the state of emergency (SoE).

The order was executed on August 19. This effectively alters his legal status and removes him from the usual protections of the prison rules. His change in status was revealed at a hearing on August 25.

Ali is again challenging his transfer from the Maximum Security Prison to Teteron Barracks, Chaguaramas.

He has sought interim court orders for airing time, access to showers and toilets, weekly family contact, clothing, and confirmation of whether a cellmate has tuberculosis. He is also asking for declarations that his transfer and detention conditions are unlawful, along with constitutional relief and damages.

Ali has filed several challenges since his transfer and detention at the military bases in Chaguaramas, under the ongoing SoE, claiming he is being held in inhumane conditions and denied basic rights.

Ali, who has been awaiting trial for the murder of special prosecutor Dana Seetahal, SC, since 2014, said he was removed from the Maximum Security Prison, Arouca, on July 18, hours after the SoE was declared and relocated to a military facility without proper explanation. He told the High Court in an affidavit that neither he nor his attorneys has been able to confirm his precise location, though he believes he remains at Teteron Barracks.

His hearing for interim relief was heard by an emergency judge, Justice Westmin James, on August 25.

His attorney, Keron Ramkhalwhan, said Ali’s wife was contacted by the prison’s welfare office and would be allowed to deliver clothing twice weekly. However, he said some of the other issues may persist, but he and his co-counsel, Anwar Hosein, have yet to receive more recent instructions.

Senior Counsel Anand Ramlogan, who leads Jared Jagroo for the Attorney General, said while the State is not admitting to any of the allegations, “given the shifting nature of the application, there is anticipation that interim relief may not be necessary.”

He then clarified Ali’s new status as an SoE detainee, arguing that the new classification means he is being held under emergency detention powers, not the prison rules

Ramlogan also told the judge that Ali was being held in a cell by himself, “so there is no likelihood of him contracting tuberculosis,” in response to Ali’s claim that he was placed with a sick inmate.

Ali has accused the authorities of subjecting him to harsh conditions since his transfer. In his latest challenge, Ali said that before his transfer, he was considered a model prisoner. He was allowed daily airing, family visits, halal meals provided through relatives, participation in Eid prayers, and enrolment in CSEC examinations scheduled for 2026. He also served as a mentor to other inmates and was never disciplined for misconduct.

Since July 18, however, Ali alleges he has been confined without airing time, denied family contact, subjected to repeated strip searches, and given questionable meals by masked officers who refuse to identify themselves. He claims his religious dietary requirements are being ignored and that he has been deprived of clothing, toiletries, books, and legal consultation.

On August 8, Ali was reportedly blindfolded and moved to another cell, where he said conditions worsened. According to his affidavit, he shared a small, unventilated cell with another prisoner, relies on a bucket for waste disposal, and endures constant artificial light, mosquito infestations, and threats from masked guards.

“My treatment amounts to punishment without legal justification,” Ali said, arguing that the transfer was done to penalise him rather than maintain security.

President Christine Kangaloo declared the SoE on July 18, citing intelligence that incarcerated individuals were plotting attacks on key national security and justice officials. The government subsequently designated Teteron Barracks and Staubles Bay as district prisons.

Police described the relocations as “rapid containment actions” to disrupt organised criminal networks, but Ali insists he is being used as a scapegoat. He denied involvement in any plot against the judiciary or the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, saying, “All I want is my day in court to answer the charges.”

Ali also accused police of intimidation, claiming officers warned Ramkhalwhan that he had threatened the lawyer’s life. Both men have denied the allegation.

In addition to the interim orders, Ali has asked for declarations that his transfer and detention conditions are unlawful, along with constitutional relief and damages.

He now intends to challenge the constitutionality of the detention order. Ali has maintained his innocence and said he has never been convicted or sentenced. He said as a first division prisoner, he is legally presumed innocent and entitled to privileges under the 1943 Prison Rules.

Also appearing at the hearing were Ian Benjamin, SC, and Renuka Rambhajan for the Commissioner of Prisons. James ordered that the prisons commissioner be added as a party to the matter and adjourned the case to September 5, when it will be heard by Justice Marissa Robertson, who is also presiding over Ali’s previous application.

Cepep case file sent to DPP

THE High Court’s proceedings and documents relating to the PNM’s second Cepep lawsuit have been sent to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

Supreme Court Registrar Raymond Roberts confirmed to Newsday that the file was sent on August 8 and the DPP’s secretariat acknowledged receipt.

On August 7, Justice Margaret Mohammed stayed the lawsuit and referred the extension of more than 300 Cepep contracts, allegedly approved by the company’s former board without proper authorisation, to the DPP.

In staying the lawsuit filed by a Laventille-based contractor challenging the termination of its contract with the Cepep Company, the judge referred to a dispute resolution clause in the contract agreement, clause 17, which she said must be followed before court action is taken.

She added that serious concerns surrounding the contract extensions warranted referral to the DPP.

“The serious matters concerning the extension of the agreement to September 2029 necessitate the granting of a stay of the claim and all proceedings and a referral of all the documents filed in this action to the Director of Public Prosecution for his consideration.”

The ruling comes amid claims that Cepep’s former board improperly extended 336 contracts — worth approximately $1.4 billion — through September 2029, allegedly based on false claims of cabinet approval. The Cepep Company is now investigating the matter as possible “political fraud.”

The lawsuit by Eastman Enterprises Ltd alleged wrongful contract termination and unpaid wages for thousands of workers. Cepep contends that the former board acted outside its authority in extending the contracts.

In her ruling on the preliminary issue raised by Cepep on the proper forum to hear the contract dispute, Mohammed noted the conflicting accounts between former Cepep chairman Joel Edwards and current CEO Keith Eddy before referring the matter to the DPP.

Edwards, in an affidavit in support of Eastman’s lawsuit, said that during his tenure, cabinet approval was never sought for renewing or terminating contracts. He claimed a board note suggesting cabinet approval for a mass contract extension was a mistake, which he had ordered to be corrected, though he was unable to locate the revised version. He has since denied all wrongdoing, insisting that during his tenure as chairman, he held several discussions with the CEO, the minister and others regarding a 2017 cabinet decision and the authority it gave the board. Edwards categorically rejected claims that he fabricated a fraudulent misrepresentation to deceive Cepep into extending the contracts, insisting he was not guilty of fraud, misrepresentation or any breach of duty.

Eddy, in an affidavit in the Eastman’s case, said he was told by Edwards that the Cabinet had approved the extensions and was assured a confirmation memorandum would follow.

Cepep Company Ltd in Ste Madeleine. – File photo by Innis Francis

Relying on Edwards’ claims and the alleged involvement of then-line minister Faris Al-Rawi, Eddy said he instructed that the Board Note be prepared stating cabinet approval had been granted. At no point, he said, was he informed of any error in the document. Cepep’s corporate secretary, Shalini Gopaulsingh, supported Eddy’s account, stating she was told Cabinet had approved the extensions and was never advised of any correction to the Board Note.

The note was approved by the board with Edwards’ signature and without objection. Acting permanent secretary Savitri Ram-Atwaroo said that no official cabinet record approving the contract extensions could be found, despite efforts to confirm it with relevant ministries. Mohammed observed that while the contractor who brought the case was not implicated in any fraudulent activity, it had benefited from the disputed extension and should have been aware of the irregularities. Given the serious nature of the allegations and the absence of a sworn affidavit from Al-Rawi, as the former minister, Mohammed ruled it was in the interest of justice to stay the proceedings.

“In my view, based on the serious allegation made against him (Al-Rawi), it is only fair that he is given an opportunity to respond.

“In those circumstances, it is prudent at this stage to grant a stay of the claim and all proceedings and to refer the documents filed in this action to the Director of Public Prosecution for his consideration.”’

In a statement on August 7, Al-Rawi pointed to what he described as “critical material” not before the court, including a 2017 cabinet note authorising Cepep to terminate, suspend and hire contractors, and a 2025 cabinet decision approving midyear budget supplementation. Both, he said, had been publicly acknowledged by former finance minister Colm Imbert.

“It is starkly relevant to note that these cabinet decisions and other critical material have not been disclosed in the Eastman proceedings and were therefore not before the Honourable Madame Justice Mohammed in her deliberations leading to the ruling today.

“Any proper investigation into this matter and any questions arising is welcomed. Cepep has a continuing duty of full candour and disclosure.”

Eastman’s lawsuit followed a similar claim filed by another Laventille-based contractor, but was quickly withdrawn after it was revealed the company was removed from the Companies Registry. Both claims sought to overturn Cepep’s decision to terminate the 336 contracts.

Public Utilities Minister Barry Padarath has said an audit of Cepep’s operations remains ongoing. He also said previously he was in the process of seeking legal advice with an intent to report the extension of contracts to the Anti-Corruption Bureau and the Fraud Squad for immediate investigation, to determine whether criminal charges for fraud and misconduct should be laid.

Defending the move to dismiss contractors, Padarath, who is the line minister, said the programme had been used as a political prostitute by the PNM.

 

Attorneys: Plot for Rajaee Ali’s extra-judicial killing

ATTORNEYS for murder accused and suspected gang leader Rajaee Ali say government has been spreading false information about him in order to justify the enacting of serious security measures including the state of emergency (SoE) and also pave the way his possible extra-judicial killing.

In a letter to the Prisons Commissioner dated July 29, Ali’s lawyer Keron Ramkhalwhan said that reports linking Ali to a plot against the judiciary and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions were “misinformation and a false narrative.”

The letter also disputed claims that Ali escaped custody, that drones were seen over Teteron Barracks in Chaguaramas, and that his transfer from MSP to the barracks was due to national security concerns.

Ramkhalwhan said the spread of these reports could be used to justify Ali’s “extra-judicial execution” and demanded answers from state authorities. Ali’s legal team has asked for proof of when and where the drones were found, any photos of the aircraft and confirmation that Ali is still in state custody.

“Further to instructions received to date, it is our considered position that the narrative currently being disseminated by the authorities constitutes a deliberate construct, designed to facilitate the extra-judicial execution of the intended applicant at the direction of the State,” Ali’s letter said.

“This narrative also appears intended to provide justification for the extreme measures recently adopted by the Government including the contemplated or declared state of emergency.”

Ali’s lawyers also requested a virtual meeting with him by 9 pm on July 29, to ensure he can give instructions on the allegations. “It is crucial that his constitutional rights, including access to legal counsel, are protected,” Ramkhalwhan said.

Ali is challenging his July 18 transfer from the Maximum Security Prison (MSP) in Arouca, saying it was unlawful and broke prison rules.

He is asking the court to send him back to the MSP, declare that his rights under Section 4(b) of the Constitution were violated and award damages. Justice Marissa Robertson has set deadlines for evidence and submissions before a September 5 hearing.

Ali is represented by Ramkhalwhan and Anwar Hosein. Ian Benjamin, SC, appears for the Commissioner of Prisons, while Anand Ramlogan, SC, represents the Attorney General.

Prisons Commissioner Carlos Corraspe. – File photo

Ali’s claim are that he was moved under Section 7 of the Prisons Act, which lets the Commissioner of Prisons transfer inmates between prisons when and as needed. His lawyers say the state has not explained why he was moved. They say he has been denied family visits, proper clothes, books, food of his choice and daily exercise (airings).

A state of emergency was declared on July 18 after police claimed they got intelligence of a network of imprisoned gang leaders plotting attacks on senior officials including judges, officers in the DPP’s Office and government officials.

That same day, Ali, Robert Paul, Daryl Bissoon, Earl Richards and Bevon Williams were all moved to Teteron Barracks in Chaguaramas.

Ali’s lawyers claim he was strip-searched twice, blindfolded and held with two other prisoners. Ali, the lawyers also claimed, has not eaten since July 18 because he fears the food, delivered by masked men, could be poisoned. He also fears for his life.

His lawyers say his transfer was unlawful, limits his access to legal counsel and was a misuse of authority.

His new court action follows a habeas corpus bid which was dismissed on July 21.

On July 24, police charged Ali with possessing banned items at Golden Grove Prison, Arouca in June. Officers allege a June 25 search led by Deputy Commissioner of Police Suzette Martin found a Samsung phone, an unbranded SIM card and a charger, which are banned under Section 8(1)(f) of the Prison Service Act.

On July 23, Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander updated detention rules under the Emergency Powers Regulations, 2025, adding Teteron Barracks and other sites as official detention centres.

Lawmakers debated the Prisons (No. 2) Order, 2025, in the Parliament to have the two military bases deemed prisons under the Prisons Act. The SoE was also extended for a period of three months by a majority vote in the House of Representatives on July 28.

 

2 granted $300k bail on attempted murder charges in alleged gang attack

TWO people were granted bail by a High Court master on charges of attempted murder and grievous bodily harm arising from an alleged attack in Belmont on June 1.

Kemar Miller, Rochard Manoram, Samantha Atkins, and Randolph Gore appeared before Master Rehanna Hosein on June 23.

Atkins and Gore were each granted bail in the sum of $300,000 with a surety, while Miller and Manoram were denied bail and remanded into custody. The matter was adjourned to December for a sufficiency hearing. Atkins was represented by attorney Enrique Singh.

Attorney Alejandro Gocking appeared for Gore and Manoram, while Miller was unrepresented. According to a police statement on June 22, four suspects were arrested following an investigation led by the Port-of-Spain Gang Intelligence Unit and the Port-of-Spain Task Force. The statement said a Venezuelan national was allegedly attacked on June 1 in the Upper Davis Street, Belmont area by individuals believed to be linked to a known criminal group. The victim reportedly sustained serious injuries.

Police said the suspects were charged with attempted murder and with throwing a corrosive substance with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. The investigation was led by Snr Supt Thom and Supt Nicholls, co-ordinated by ASPs Soodeen and Mungroo, with Insp Durga also involved. Acting Sgt St Bernard provided direct supervision, with legal guidance from acting Sgt Smith.

The statement added that further legal advice was being sought from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions regarding possible charges under the Anti-Gang Act.

Scarborough magistrate dismisses immigration charges against 23 foreigners

A Scarborough magistrate has dismissed criminal charges against 23 foreign nationals who were detained during a high-profile exercise in Tobago in June 2024.

Police and immigration officers had detained 32 foreigners, and a 35-year-old from Tarodale, during “Operation Slam” at the Chill Out Bar in Crown Point, Tobago.

On June 16, Magistrate Nikolas Ali upheld defence submissions that the immigration charges against 23 ­– primarily Venezuelans and Dominicans – were statute-barred under the Immigration Act.

The group were charged for allegedly entering Trinidad and Tobago at a place not designated as a port of entry and failing to report to immigration authorities.

At a previous hearing, the prosecution agreed with defence attorney Yves Jacques Nicholson’s submissions on time limits, and Ali gave the prosecution time to discontinue the matters, warning that if they failed to do so, he would rule on the case.

At the June 16 hearing, Nicholson argued that the prosecution had not advanced any legal basis to justify the continuation of the matter, nor were instructions obtained from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, after repeated adjournments. He refused to agree to a further adjournment, saying, “Whether this matter ends by way of discontinuation or ends by way of dismissal, it ends.”

Nicholson referred to a 2024 ruling which held that proceedings under section 40(a) of the Immigration Act must be initiated within three years of the alleged entry and failure to report. He said failing to specify the date of entry on the complaint would be fatal to the prosecution’s case.

In deciding the case, Ali agreed it would be inappropriate to grant a further adjournment, especially when the prosecution agreed with the defence’s submissions. He also noted there was no need for the DPP’s office to get involved, given the police’s position.

“I think at some stage, the opportunity given to be heard must expire. It cannot continue, and it will not be on record that the court did not allow the prosecution the ability to seek advice… That was allowed since April of this year. We are now in the middle of June.”

He also noted it was only two weeks ago that the files were submitted to the DPP’s office by the police’s prosecution team.

“And, and no word forthcoming coming at this stage. I think it just has the cause of delaying the proceedings of all stakeholders involved,” Ali said.

“The matters…are all dismissed,” he ruled.

Manzanilla man sentenced for role in 2014 killing of sawmill owner

A Manzanilla man has been sentenced to over six years in prison for his role in the killing of sawmill owner John Ramoutar in 2014.

Arnold Ashton was sentenced on June 6 after pleading guilty to felony murder as part of a plea deal with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. He appeared before Justice Gail Gonzales.

The judge began with a 27-year prison sentence, but after giving credit for Ashton’s guilty plea and time already spent in custody, he was left with a final sentence of six years, five months, and 17 days of hard labour.

Ashton had been in custody for almost 11 years. His co-accused, Leonelle Clement, was sentenced in November 2024. Ashton was represented by public defenders Shaun Morris and Janiel Chuck.

According to the evidence, on July 22, 2014, 62-year-old John Ramoutar left his home around 4 pm to tend to his animals near Boynes Trace, Manzanilla. He and his family owned a sawmill.

Around 5.41 pm, Ramoutar’s daughter-in-law called his phone. A man answered, and she heard him say, “Oh God, oh God, allyuh,” in a pained voice. She became concerned and told her husband to go look for him.

She called the phone again, and a man answered again, saying Ramoutar owed them money and warned her not to call back. Ramoutar’s son, Richard, also called and was told his father owed $200,000. When he asked where to drop the money, the caller said they would speak the next day and hung up.

That night, Richard and other workers searched the area. They found Ramoutar’s pickup but not him. Police were called, and soon after, Ashton and Clement were arrested.

Both men gave statements to police. Clement said they kidnapped Ramoutar near a swamp. Ashton confirmed they planned to ask for a ransom of $400,000. They tied Ramoutar up and dragged him into the bushes. After demanding money, Ramoutar began to cry out in distress. They kicked him and took him deeper into the forest. Ashton said Clement told him to kill Ramoutar. Ashton then pushed Ramoutar’s head into a pool of water and held it down several times until he stopped moving. They left his body in the water and escaped through the bush.

When arrested, Clement showed police where they had left Ramoutar’s body. Ashton led officers to where he had hidden weapons and items taken from the victim, including cutlasses, a leather belt, and gloves. A post-mortem later showed Ramoutar died from a fractured neck.

Ex-US soldier gets 10 years for killing man who taunted him over girlfriend

A former US military private has been sentenced for fatally chopping a man who repeatedly taunted him by claiming to be involved with his girlfriend.

Kameel Seepersad was sentenced by Justice Nalini Singh on May 26. He was originally charged with the murder of Rishi Sankar, which took place on June 27, 2016. In May, plea deal discussions with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions were completed, and Seepersad was allowed to plead guilty to manslaughter based on provocation.

After considering his good character, time already spent in prison, and his guilty plea, the judge informed Seepersad that prison authorities would determine whether he would be released immediately. Seepersad’s sentence was 23 years’ hard labour reduced to ten years’ hard labour for mitigating factors, and his one-third guilty plea discount before credit was given for time already served.

According to the facts in the case, Seepersad confessed to killing Sankar, saying the victim had provoked him. This led to an altercation during which he chopped Sankar and wrapped the body in plastic and disposed of it in a river in Manzanilla along with two cutlasses and his clothing.

When confronted by police, Seepersad said, “Officer, I cyar take it, boss ah really kill the man. The man living down by way meh brother building he house and officer he always throwing talk fuh meh bout how he brush meh gyul.”

He said on the day of the incident, Sankar hit him with a piece of wood before he chopped him.

In his confession, Seepersad, “Ah chop him right by the gate, he fall on the ground, then ah wrap he in polythene. Ah put he in he car trunk, ah drive gone Manzanilla and throw him in the river by the big bridge. Ah throw two cutlass and all meh clothes.

“Officer, if yuh check by the house inside the gate, it have ah piece of ply board, it go have blood below it.”

He also directed officers to the site where he claimed Sankar’s body was dumped.

Sankar’s decomposed body was recovered weeks later on July 14, 2016, in Piparo, after the police were alerted by hunters. The body was wrapped in a burgundy cloth, bound with a cable cord and plastic bags covering its head and feet. A post-mortem revealed multiple chop wounds to the head, and DNA tests confirmed the remains belonged to Rishi Sankar. On October 7, 2016, after being cautioned during further questioning, Seepersad expressed remorse. Four days later, he was officially charged with Sankar’s murder.

In a plea of mitigation, Seepersad’s attorneys, Jason Jackson and Krysan Rambert, urged the judge to consider that the offence was not premeditated, nor were others involved, and there was provocation by Sankar. They also submitted that Seepersad was 27 years old at the time and had two children.

They said Seepersad migrated to the US as a teen and at 19, enrolled in the US Army, where he served at the rank of private for four years before resigning and returning to Trinidad.

In sentencing Seepersad, the judge noted he had participated in several programmes in prison, including the Vision on a Mission programme, was enrolled to sit the CXC examinations, and was an avid reader, while also being trained in steel fabricating.

In mitigation, Seepersad also wrote an apology to Sankar’s family, taking responsibility for his actions and asking for their forgiveness.

Penal man sentenced for killing childhood friend

A PENAL man who fatally stabbed his childhood friend during a confrontation in 2023 has been urged by a High Court judge to use his remaining years in prison to prepare for life after incarceration.

Leon Sherwin Baptiste, 23, was sentenced on May 15 by Justice Lisa Ramsumair-Hinds for the death of Carlyle “Blacks” Hamilton. Although charged with murder, Baptiste pleaded guilty to manslaughter by provocation in a plea agreement with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. His sentence was reduced to just under nine years after deductions for his good behaviour, guilty plea and the time he has already spent incarcerated.

“You will be nearly 30 when you are released,” the judge told Baptiste. “There is so much you can do in those eight years. Get yourself ready. Society is changing. You’ll be coming back out after a decade locked up. Remember what you did. You are the lucky one, another man is dead.”

The judge acknowledged the pain Hamilton’s family had to endure, noting that no sentence could truly ease their suffering. Still, she stressed the importance of rehabilitation and transparency in sentencing.

“It serves us all for a safer TT to try and rehabilitate them.”

“While I can’t give the family their pound of flesh, our focus must be on creating a safer society. That includes rehabilitating offenders like you,” she said.

According to the evidence, the killing followed a heated argument six days earlier, when Baptiste, reportedly intoxicated, confronted a group of men, including Hamilton, over a conversation he overheard.

He allegedly returned with threats, claiming he was going for his guns and telling one person he would “empty the clip” in his stomach and kill the others.

On the day of the incident, September 8, 2023, neighbours saw Baptiste with a knife. He repeatedly claimed self-defence, telling police he was attacked and injured by Hamilton, and was also beaten by others. Baptiste said Hamilton struck him with a jump kick, knocking him down, and the two then struggled before he fatally stabbed Hamilton in the neck with what he described as “a piece of iron.”

Hamilton died from a single stab wound, according to the post-mortem report.

Baptiste was represented by attorneys Jason Jackson and Krysan Rambert.

Police file completed against Trinibad artiste in viral threat video

Police have completed a case file against a 35-year-old “Trinibad” artiste who was arrested in connection with a viral video showing a man making explicit threats of violence toward supporters of a particular political party while endorsing another.

As of midday on April 14, the man had not yet been charged. Police confirmed that investigators were expected to consult with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) later in the day or by the next day for further direction.

ACP Richard Smith told Newsday that the suspect is facing a possible sedition charge, “subject to the discretion of the DPP.”

He added that the investigation is still ongoing.

In the video, the man – wearing a t-shirt bearing the logo of a political party – can be seen threatening to “tie strap” people in areas known to be strongholds of another political party.

He claimed he would carry out these actions the night before the general election, scheduled for April 28, to prevent them from voting.

“You all not learning,” he said in the video, warning that he intended to “teach them a lesson.”

The man also said he did not care if police arrested him “the day after election.”

He was arrested on April 11 during an intelligence-led operation conducted by officers of the National Operations Unit (NOU), under the supervision of ACP Smith and ASP Ramharrack, in the Penal district. He is a resident of Santa Flora.

In a recent statement, police said they treated any threats to public safety or national security with the utmost seriousness – particularly in the lead-up to an election.

They also reminded the public that while freedom of expression is a constitutional right, it must be exercised responsibly and within the limits of the law.

Man acquitted of sex offences in AJIPA trial

A 63-year-old man was acquitted of all four counts of sexual penetration against a minor female by nine jurors after a trial conducted under the Administration of Justice (Indictable Proceedings) Act (AJIPA).

The verdict was delivered at the Port of Spain High Court on March 27.

The allegations stemmed from four separate incidents that allegedly took place between April 8, 2021, and April 8, 2022. The accused was arrested and charged on December 11, 2023. He was arraigned and pleaded not guilty before Justice Mauricia Joseph-Patrick when the trial started on March 10.

According to the prosecution, the alleged victim, a friend of the accused’s daughter, visited his home on multiple occasions and engaged in sexual intercourse with him. The prosecution further alleged that the accused gave the victim money and a cell phone. Two family members of the victim testified in support of these claims.

During the trial, the alleged victim had to have her memory refreshed multiple times from her prior statements given to the police. In closing addresses, defence attorneys Collin Elbourne and Janeil Chuck of the Public Defenders’ Department pointed to inconsistencies and contradictions in her testimony and that of her relatives. They also raised concerns over the lack of statements from independent witnesses, arguing that the case against the accused was unreliable and implausible.

At the trial, the accused consistently denied the allegations, asserting that the victim and her family had fabricated the claims. A close family member of the accused testified in his defense.

The case highlighted the efficiency of AJIPA in expediting criminal proceedings, with the accused’s trial concluding within 15 months of his arrest.

Rebecca Trim-Wright and Bisram Ramdatt from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions prosecuted.

Defence Force member charged with Pleasantville woman’s murder

A member of the Defence Force has been charged with the murder of a 39-year-old mother of two from Pleasantville.

Lance Cpl Kevin Hamilton, 40, was charged over the weekend and is expected to appear before a master in the South B Criminal Court on March 17.

Hamilton has two addresses: one at Upper Belle Eau Road, Belmont, and another at 15th Street in Beetham.

Chezerae Kidney-Ramdass, of Apartment 13, Building C in Orchid Gardens, was shot dead in her apartment around 3.40 pm on January 29 by a man pretending to be a customer.

She operated a parlour from her apartment on the ground floor.

The police retrieved ten spent shells at the scene.

Supt Steve Persad, ASP Maharaj, and Sgt Bridgemohan, of the Homicide Bureau of Investigations, Region Three, led the investigation, and WPC Mohammed laid the charge.

A few days ago, a file was submitted to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for advice, and on March 15, the police received instructions to charge Hamilton.

Williamsville man sentenced for killing of wife in 2012

A Williamsville man who killed his wife in 2012 after confronting her about an affair will serve three more years in prison after receiving a 20-year sentence.

Roger Sewlal was sentenced by Justice Hayden St Clair-Douglas after accepting a plea agreement with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, allowing him to plead guilty to murder based on provocation.

The judge deducted 13 years and four months for his guilty plea and credited him for the decade he spent in remand, leaving him with three years and one month to serve with hard labour.

Sewlal, who was arrested more than two years after the killing, was charged with the October 1, 2012, murder of his wife, Shanti, at Esmeralda Branch Road. The 31-year-old mother of two was stabbed multiple times in her chest and arms.

According to the evidence, Sewlal had breached a protection order when he entered Shanti’s home that night. Their two children, then 12 and nine, were present. The younger child recalled hearing his mother plead, “Roger, doh do this nah, please,” before she screamed. The couple’s daughter saw Sewlal holding her mother down and repeatedly stabbing her. She ran to a neighbour’s house for help, screaming.

Shanti’s father, alerted by his granddaughter’s cries, saw his daughter run naked to the garage with a knife lodged in her chest, bleeding from her mouth. She collapsed and died seconds later.

Sewlal fled, later telling police at Vessigny Beach in La Brea, where he was captured two years later, that he was “fed up” running. He claimed Shanti had approached him with a knife after he confronted her about her alleged affair.

His attorneys, Senior Counsel Ramesh Lawrence Maharaj and Michael Rooplal, argued that Sewlal acted out of a loss of self-control upon learning of his wife’s infidelity, catching her in the act in his home and a claim that she told him he was not the father of their children. A psychiatric report indicated he suffered from Post-Infidelity Stress Disorder.

Sewlal’s lawyers admitted there were aggravating factors in the case, including his use of a weapon, breach of a court order, premeditation, and the presence of his children. However, they urged the court to consider Shanti’s “provoking words and acts” and Sewlal’s remorse.

In their submissions, the defence attorneys said the evidence showed he was acting out of a loss of self-control. They also referred to evidence from Shanti’s lover, giving sordid details of their relationship.

The attorneys admitted while gender-based violence and domestic violence were serious issues, they submitted that Sewlal’s mental health should not be overlooked.

“Men’s mental health continues to face social stigmas and other barriers to adequate treatment. Infidelity and its psychological impact have notably been considered as an issue which leads to the deterioration of one’s mental health.

“Consequently, this leads to extreme emotional and psychological responses.”

Sewlal will complete his remaining sentence in prison with hard labour, starting from the date of his sentence on March 12.

State attorney Tricia Samuel prosecuted.

Court to hear landscaper’s SoE bail challenge

A Belmont landscaper challenging the acting deputy chief magistrate’s decision to deny him bail on ammunition charges under the emergency powers regulations 2024, has been permitted to proceed with his judicial review claim.

Justice Joan Charles granted leave to Afiba Guerra to pursue his claim and ordered an expedited hearing of the substantive matter on February 7.

Guerra’s attorney Keron Ramkhalwhan filed a judicial review application challenging a decision by acting Deputy Chief Magistrate Brian Dabideen to deny him bail under the emergency powers regulations, 2024.

He is seeking to have Dabideen’s decision, made on January 13, quashed and remitted to another magistrate for fresh consideration.

However, Senior Counsel Rishi Dass, who appears for the deputy chief magistrate, argued there was an alternative remedy open to Guerra to apply to a judge in chambers given the magistrate’s orders stated in an extract that bail was denied after considering provisions of the Bail Act.

Admitting there was a degree of ambiguity on the grounds for denying bail, Dabideen is expected to put in an affidavit.

Ramkhalwhan urged the judge to look at the transcripts not only the extract, pointing out that his client was not advised to apply to a judge in chambers for bail after it was denied as is usually done.

Ramkhalwhan was also advised to serve the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions with the claim ahead of February 7’s hearing.

Ramkhalwhan has previously countered that the law does not provide for an appeal of a magistrate’s decision on bail but instead allows for a fresh application before a judge in chambers. However, he argued that the regulations did not permit this.

“The regulations have suspended the judge-in-chambers bail.”

Guerra, 28, of Upper St Francois Valley Road, Belmont, was arrested at Zachariah Avenue, Thick Village, Siparia on January 9.

He was charged under the SoE regulations and at his first court appearance, Dabideen denied him bail after considering the regulations and the Bail Act. Dabideen had also questioned why the charge fell under the SoE regulations and not the Firearms Act, which carried a higher penalty, but the police told him they were just complying with instructions from their legal unit.

Regulation 17 suspends bail for individuals detained or charged under the SoE. It also prevents individuals from applying for a writ of habeas corpus if denied bail and prevents judges from exercising their jurisdiction over the denial of bail.

Guerra’s lawsuit contends there was no evidence to support Dabideen’s denial of bail, also alleging that the acting deputy Chief Magistrate applied the wrong legal test.

Guerra’s application also contends that Dabideen failed to provide the specific sections of the Bail Act and regulations he relied on to deny bail.

Tobago Business Chamber calls on PSC to appoint acting CoP during probe

THE TOBAGO Business Chamber is urging the Police Service Commission (PSC) to send Police Commissioner Erla Harewood-Christopher on administrative leave immediately, pending the outcome of a criminal investigation involving the importation of two military-grade sniper weapons for the Strategic Services Agency (SSA).

It also wants the commission to appoint an acting police commissioner during the probe.

“We need that type of decisive leadership now,” the chamber’s chairman Martin George said in a video sent to media houses via WhatsApp on January 31.

Harewood-Christopher, Trinidad and Tobago’s first female police commissioner, was arrested on January 30 at her office at the Police Administration Building, Sackville Street, Port of Spain.

Former director of the SSA retired Major Roger Best was arrested at his Arima home in connection with the importation of the weapons on January 29.

The top cop’s arrest, at the height of a state of emergency, has sent shock waves throughout the police service and other sectors of society, with some calling for her to be replaced.

George, an attorney and former member of the PSC, said the development has placed the police service and country in an embarrassing position.

“The current imbroglio which has engulfed the TTPS by the arrest and detention of the sitting commissioner of police is of course, a very embarrassing scenario for us all as citizens of TT,” he said.

“It is an embarrassment for our entire national security apparatus because we have heard that the former head of the SSA has also been arrested.”

At this point, George said, “It is desperately necessary for the PSC to step up to the plate and seek to immediately restore public trust and confidence in the police service.

“If it is that the police commissioner is being questioned in relation to certain alleged offences, then it may be prudent for the PSC at this time to issue a directive sending her on administrative leave immediately and making steps to appoint an acting commissioner in her stead.”

George said the situation cannot be ignored.

“There have been previous iterations of the PSC, which have chosen to remain numb and dumb in the face of raging crises within the service. This is not an option anymore.”

He also said the National Security Council, headed by the Prime Minister, must make “a clear, decisive statement on the matter.

“It would appear this time that we are operating in a rudderless manner without guidance, without direction, without leadership, without any head directing and controlling the operations of our national security apparatus and that is not good for Trinidad and Tobago, particularly while we are under a state of emergency.

“So this is the time for people to step up, perform their constitutional duty and ensure that you bring back that level of clarity and direction to the national security apparatus because at this point it would appear that instead of us having a state of national security, we are all functioning in a state of national insecurity.”

Dr Rowley, on January 31, said while he was disappointed by the arrest of the CoP, the government had no role in the matter. He said the police and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions had the responsibility to ensure a fair investigation.

He said the PSC would act if the CoP was “indicted in any way.”

There has been no response to questions sent to the secretariat of the PSC.

Man denied bail under SoE rules told to serve DPP with lawsuit

A Belmont landscaper challenging the acting deputy chief magistrate’s decision to deny him bail on ammunition charges has been advised to serve the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) with his judicial review application.

Afiba Guerra’s application came up for hearing before Justice Joan Charles on January 27.

Guerra filed a judicial review application challenging a decision by acting Deputy Chief Magistrate Brian Dabideen to deny him bail under the Emergency Powers Regulations, 2024.

Charles said the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) must be served with the application.

Guerra is seeking to have Dabideen’s decision, made on January 13, quashed and remitted to another magistrate for fresh consideration.

Representing the State, attorney Janique Mitchell noted that the lawsuit appeared to require an interpretation of the emergency powers regulations and their interaction with other legal frameworks, including the Bail Act.

She argued that the DPP should be served with the application. Mitchell also asked for additional time to retain senior counsel for the case and raised the question of whether Guerra’s recourse should have been an appeal of the magistrate’s decision.

Guerra’s attorney, Keron Ramkhalwan, countered that the law does not provide for an appeal of a magistrate’s decision on bail, but instead allows for a fresh application before a judge in chambers.

However, he argued that the regulations did not permit this course of action.

“The regulations have suspended judge-in-chambers bail.”

Ramkhalwan also referred to legal precedents on the need for prompt hearings on bail reviews and pointed out that the regulations had an expiry date. He also said he had no objection to serving the DPP.

He has to do so by 4 pm on January 27.

Charles referred to the law on decisions made by lower courts and ordered that the intended respondent be given time to file and serve affidavits responding to Guerra’s application.

The matter was adjourned to February 3, allowing time for all parties to prepare their submissions.

Guerra, 28, of Upper St Francois Valley Road, Belmont, was arrested at Zachariah Avenue, Thick Village, Siparia on January 9.

He was charged under the SoE regulations. At his first court appearance, Dabideen denied him bail after considering the regulations and the Bail Act. Dabideen had also questioned why the charge fell under the SoE regulations and not the Firearms Act, which carried a higher penalty, but the police told him they were just complying with instructions from their legal unit.

Regulation 17 suspends bail for individuals detained or charged under the SoE. It also prevents individuals from applying for a writ of habeas corpus if denied bail and prevents judges from exercising their jurisdiction over the denial of bail.

Guerra’s lawsuit contends there was no evidence to support Dabideen’s denial of bail, also alleging that the acting deputy Chief Magistrate applied the wrong legal test.

Guerra’s application also contends that Dabideen failed to provide the specific sections of the Bail Act and regulations he relied on to deny bail.

Eastern Lawyers Association calls for urgent action after murders of attorneys

THE Eastern Lawyers Association is calling for urgent action in the wake of the deaths of two attorneys.

In a news release the association expressed its condolences to family and friends over “the tragic and untimely deaths” of attorney Kumari Baksh, whom it described as a respected member of the legal community, and her husband, Nasheed Baksh.

The January 10 media release said the couple’s tragic and violent deaths at their Caratal Road, Cumuto, home on January 9 serve as a grim reminder of the alarming surge in crime in Trinidad and Tobago, and the murders starkly highlight the disturbing rise in crime in society.

The association also highlighted the murder of special prosecutor Randall Hector, who was assassinated on New Year’s Eve.

“This incident, occurring shortly after the murder of another lawyer, raises significant concerns regarding the safety of legal professionals. Such targeted violence not only threatens individual lives but also erodes the rule of law and the core principles of justice that our society relies upon.”

Hector had worked as a special prosecutor with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

He had just delivered a sermon at the Stanmore Avenue Seventh-Day Adventist Church and was walking to the car with his wife and children when a Nissan B-15 car and a black SUV pulled up and two gunmen got out and shot him several times before escaping.

The association described people in the legal field as advocates for justice and emphasised that attorneys play a crucial role in protecting the rights of all citizens.

It said any attack on members of the legal profession is a direct threat to the justice system and demands immediate and decisive action.

Kumari Baksh, an attorney, was killed along with her husband at their home on January 9. –

In response to these events, the association said it is calling on the authorities to take urgent measures to combat this disturbing trend and urged the police to do a “thorough investigation.”

“The police must diligently pursue all leads to identify and hold accountable those responsible for this horrific crime.”

It added that the police must strengthen protections for legal professionals and government and law enforcement agencies must evaluate the risks faced by legal practitioners and implement necessary security measures, especially for those involved in high-stakes or sensitive cases.

The association said it believes that with crime and violence reaching critical levels, those in authority must tackle “the broader crime crisis.”

Its statement called for meaningful and sustained efforts to address challenges, which include enhancing law-enforcement capabilities, improving crime-prevention strategies and tackling the underlying causes of criminal behaviour.

Concluding its statement, the association said the murders underscore the urgency of collective responsibility to ensure the safety of all citizens and the integrity of the justice system.

“As an organisation, we remain steadfast in advocating for the protection of our members and the preservation of the rule of law, no matter the obstacles we face.”

Also sending condolences to the Baksh family and friends, Cumuto/Manzanilla MP Dr Rai Ragbir, in a Facebook post, said he is deeply saddened and outraged by the horrifying murders.

“This unspeakable act of violence has shocked and devastated our community.”

Ragbir said as MP for the area, he cannot stand by while his constituents continue to face the terrifying reality of crime and violence.

“It is unacceptable that families in the constituency live in fear, uncertain of their safety within their own homes. I am calling on the Ministry of National Security to urgently allocate more resources to the police in Cumuto/Manzanilla. We need an increased police presence, enhanced patrols, and more equipment and support for our officers to address the growing security concerns in our community.”

Ragbir said the constituency “has been neglected for far too long” when it comes to adequate security measures.

He said the people of Cumuto/Manzanilla deserve to feel safe, and the area has long suffered from insufficient law-enforcement resources. This tragedy, he says, highlights the urgent need for change.

He described the murders as heartbreaking and said they remind everyone of the importance of building trust and collaboration between law enforcement and the community.

“We must work together to ensure that our neighbourhoods are safe and that justice is served for Kumari and Nasheed.”

He ended his post by urging anyone with information about the heinous crime to come forward and assist the police with their investigations.

“Together, we must take a stand against violence and demand a safer future for our families and loved ones.”

 

Protection for prosecutors after Randall Hector’s assassination

PROSECUTORS from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) will be provided with additional security in the wake of  the December 31 assassination of their former colleague, special prosecutor Randall Hector.

Hector, 43, was gunned down moments after leaving the Seventh-Day Adventist Church at Stanmore Avenue in Port of Spain, after a state of emergency was declared to deal with an upsurge in gang violence.

DPP Roger Gaspard, SC, met with his “traumatised” staff on January 3. State attorneys at the DPP’s office are also fearful for their safety.

Speaking to reporters after the police service’s annual interfaith service in San Fernando on January 5, Commissioner of Police Erla Harewood-Christopher said investigators are working on providing key stakeholders in the criminal-justice sector with additional security.

She was unable to say if this would see prosecutors return to the courts come January 6. They had refused to do so after Hector’s murder.

“I don’t control the Judiciary. I’m responsible for security.”

Hector was the last of 624 people to be murdered in 2024, the country’s bloodiest year to date, seconded by 2022, with 605 killings.

Hector’s assassination came the day after a curfew-less state of emergency was declared to allow police extra powers to deal with an imminent threat of widespread reprisal gang killings.

Hector had just delivered the New Year’s Eve sermon and was walking back to his vehicle with his wife and children when a Nissan B-15 car and a black SUV pulled up and two gunmen got out and shot him several times before escaping. Church officials took him to hospital, where he later died.

Police believe his murder was gang-related, as he was a special prosecutor for the Office of the DPP to prosecute gang-related cases.

Senior police sources confirmed the Special Branch was collaborating with the Office of the DPP to do threat assessments on state attorneys involved in prosecuting alleged gang affiliates.

Authorities are also exploring additional protective measures to ensure the security of those in the criminal justice system but were reluctant to give details.