Black Water Man Sentenced to Life Imprisonment for Killing Stepson
November 16 2024 – Nigel Abrams, also known as Nigel Abraham, a 32-year-old man from Black Water, North West District in Region One (Barima-Waini), has been sentenced to life imprisonment for killing his 17-year-old stepson, Daniel Wilson, during a heated altercation in 2022.
The ruling was delivered on Thursday by Justice Sandil Kissoon at the Demerara High Court. Abrams must serve at least 20 years before becoming eligible for parole.
The incident occurred on the night of April 17, 2022, after Abrams, Wilson, and Wilson’s cousin, 19-year-old Ron Moonsammy, had been drinking together.
A verbal argument between Abrams and Wilson escalated, leading to Abrams inflicting fatal injuries on his stepson. When Moonsammy intervened to protect his cousin, Abrams stabbed him in the chest, leaving him critically wounded.
Wilson died at the scene, while Moonsammy was rushed to the Mabaruma Public Hospital and later transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he received life-saving treatment.
Initially charged with murder, Abrams pleaded guilty to the lesser offence of manslaughter.
Earlier in the week, on Monday, he was also sentenced to 12 years in prison for the attempted murder of Moonsammy. Justice Peter Hugh presided over the attempted murder case.
Justice Kissoon condemned Abrams’ actions, emphasising the betrayal of trust and the gravity of the offence. He stated that Abrams demonstrated a blatant disregard for human life.
In addition to the jail sentences, Abrams was ordered to participate in educational and behaviour modification programmes while incarcerated to support his rehabilitation.
These measures aim to prepare him for reintegration into society after his release.
Attorney Delon Fraser represented the prosecution, while Joshua Benn acted as Abrams’ defence counsel. Abrams was credited for the time he spent in pre-trial custody.
This case highlights the far-reaching impact of alcohol-fuelled violence in hinterland communities, a recurring issue previously emphasised by Justice Kissoon in related matters.
