Fisherman to be sentenced next week for 2021 killing

Zibeon Williams, 24, will learn his fate next Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at the Georgetown High Court, where he had earlier pleaded guilty to the December 2021 killing of Joshua Ferdinand.

Williams, a former resident of Friendship, East Bank Demerara (EBD) and fisherman, admitted to unlawfully killing 23-year-old Ferdinand on December 20, 2021.

Dead: Joshua Ferdinand

Initially charged with murder, he pled guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter.

Williams appeared before Justice Zamilla Ally-Seepaul on Thursday, where an impact statement from Ferdinand’s  mother, reports from a prison welfare officer and psychiatrist, and submissions from both the prosecution and defence were presented.

The incident occurred around 8:30 PM at a shop in Friendship where Williams was drinking alcohol.
An argument broke out between Williams and the aunt of the deceased.

Then, Ferdinand, 23, intervened and pushed Williams into a nearby trench.

Reports state that Williams emerged from the trench and stabbed Ferdinand twice—once in the neck and once in the abdomen. Ferdinand was declared dead on arrival at Diamond Hospital.

Ferdinand’s mother described her son as loving, peaceful, and supportive, revealing that his death devastated their family, especially as it occurred close to Christmas.

She called for a harsh sentence for Williams, expressing no mercy. The prison welfare officer testified to Williams’ good behaviour and participation in rehabilitation programmes, while State prosecutor Padma Dubraj recommended a starting sentence of 25 years due to the crime’s severity.

Williams apologised to the court, expressing remorse and asking for leniency, while his lawyer,
Ronald Bostwick, emphasised his client’s regret and cooperation with the legal process.

Williams will return to court next Tuesday for sentencing.