Five cops charged with murder in Gavin Douglas death

November 6 2026

Five men appeared before Chief Magistrate Judy Latchman moments ago after being charged jointly with the murder of Gavin Douglas at Vreed-en-Hoop, West Coast Demerara.

The court heard that on Saturday, October 31, 2026, the five accused, Tiansay Thomas, Wencill Marshall, Joel Newsum, Bevis Lyle, and Ariff Haniff, allegedly murdered Douglas. Chief Magistrate Latchman read the capital charge to the defendants during the court proceedings, informing them, “It is alleged that all five of you on Saturday, 31st October 2026, at Vreed-en-Hoop, murdered Gavin Douglas.”

Legal representation for the accused saw attorney-at-law Yuborn Allicock appearing on behalf of Thomas and Marshall. Meanwhile, Newsum was represented by a legal team comprising Kiswana Jefford, Nigel Hughes, and Tiffaine Rutherford. The defendant, Haniff, was represented by Shamar Britton and Meshawn Persaud.

None of the five men were required to enter a plea to the indictable charge. Chief Magistrate Latchman subsequently remanded all five accused to prison, and the matter was adjourned as court proceedings continue.

The next sitting of court is November 17th at Vreed en Hoop Magistrate’s Court.