Barbados: Robbery Suspect Remanded Over Firearm Concern

A 20-year-old robbery suspect has been remanded to Dodds Prison after the prosecutor informed the court that a firearm was allegedly used in the commission of the offence. The suspect, Javonte Rashide Marshall-Jordan, who resides on Martindales Road, Bannister Land, was not required to enter a plea regarding the indictable offence of robbing Shane Drax of $1,600 on Saturday.

Prosecutor Sergeant Kenmore Phillips expressed concerns regarding the release of Marshall-Jordan, citing the alleged use of a firearm during the robbery, which has not yet been recovered. He also mentioned that another suspect is still being sought by the police in connection with the case. Phillips stated, “There is also another suspect being sought by the police in this case and there is the belief that if released, the accused could interfere or hamper investigations.” He further noted that the strength of the evidence against Marshall-Jordan is considered to be substantial.

In response, Marshall-Jordan’s attorney, Senior Counsel Angella Mitchell-Gittens, argued for bail, asserting that her client was a suitable candidate for release. She contended, “One of the objections raised was that he was in possession of a firearm. My understanding is that he was never in possession of any firearm. The investigations are ongoing. He is a young man, has no previous convictions, has never been charged, and this is his first time before the court. He has a fixed place of abode.”

Mitchell-Gittens emphasized that she did not believe her client could obstruct the police in their efforts to apprehend the other suspect, stating, “I do not think that he can stop the Barbados Police Service from finding another person when that person being apprehended will be to his benefit.” She also pointed out that while her client has been charged, it does not imply that the evidence against him is conclusive, adding, “I have never heard of a case where a person comes into custody, is charged and then a firearm or anything else magically appears after this person goes to prison.”

Furthermore, she highlighted that the other suspect is currently the subject of a wanted bulletin, arguing that the State’s case against her client lacks strength. Mitchell-Gittens insisted that Marshall-Jordan is willing to comply with any bail conditions that may be set by the court.

After considering the arguments presented, Magistrate Manila Renee denied the bail application and adjourned the case until September 25. The proceedings continue as the investigation unfolds, with law enforcement actively seeking the additional suspect involved in the robbery.

Source: barbadostoday.bb