Chief Justice Orders Acquittal in Kaneville Murder Case

November 12 2025

Shawn George, who was on trial for the murder of Michael Scott and the attempted murder of Jimmy Thomas, walked out of the High Court in Demerara a free man after Acting Chief Justice Navindra Singh directed a jury to return formal not-guilty verdicts on both charges.

George, represented by defence attorney Glendon Greenidge, had pleaded not guilty to the charges when arraigned earlier this month.

Prosecutors Christopher Belfield, Simran Gajraj, and Geneva Wills had alleged that between May 24 and 29, 2023, at Kaneville, East Bank Demerara (EBD), George and others fatally shot and chopped Scott.

It was further alleged that he later attempted to kill Thomas, who was shot in the stomach during the same incident.

However, following the presentation of the prosecution’s case, Greenidge submitted that there was insufficient evidence to link George to the crimes.

After reviewing the evidence, Chief Justice Singh agreed, finding that the State had failed to meet the required standard of proof.

Consequently, he upheld the defence’s no-case submission.

Following the ruling, the 12-member jury was directed to deliver a not-guilty verdict, thereby formally acquitting George and bringing the case to a close.

An emotional George expressed gratitude upon his release, saying, “I am just so thankful to be home and free after all this time.”

His attorney described the outcome as a just one, emphasising that the decision underscored the importance of the prosecution’s duty to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt.

With the court’s ruling, George has been fully acquitted of all charges.