Meadowbrook Man on $150,000 Bail for Illegal Firearm Possession

January 22 2025- A 31-year-old resident of Meadowbrook Housing Scheme, Georgetown, was granted bail after being charged with illegal firearm possession.

Darwin Bennons appeared on Tuesday before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith Mc Gusty at the
Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, where he pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The court heard that on January 18, 2025, in Tucville, Georgetown, Bennons was allegedly found
with a Sig Sauer P365 9mm pistol, despite not being licensed to carry a firearm.

The incident unfolded around 11:00 p.m. when police officers on mobile patrol in Tucville heard two
explosions resembling gunshots.

Upon reaching Perry and Samaan Streets, they observed three men running. The officers pursued
and apprehended Bennons, who was reportedly holding the firearm in his right hand.

According to police reports, Bennons handed over the firearm, which had no ammunition in its
magazine, without resistance.

An 18-year-old laborer from Tucville was also detained, but searches conducted at both men’s
homes yielded no illegal items.

Bennons’ attorney, Domnick Bess, argued that his client was an innocent bystander caught in an
altercation that escalated. According to Bess, Bennons was targeted by one of the suspects, who
attempted to rob him of his gold chain and valuables.

A struggle reportedly ensued, during which Bennons managed to disarm the individual. Bess stated
that two shots were fired during the altercation, but Bennons was unharmed.

The defence highlighted Bennons’ cooperation with the police, including voluntarily surrendering the
weapon and not resisting arrest.

Bess also underscored Bennons’ vulnerability, pointing out that he has only one arm due to a
previous accident, making him an “easy target” in such situations.

The prosecution strongly objected to bail, citing the severity of the offence and its implications for
public safety. They argued that Bennons was allegedly found in possession of the firearm at the
scene and noted claims of prior court appearances for similar offences.

After considering the arguments from both side, Chief Magistrate Mc Gusty granted Bennons bail in
the sum of $150,000, under strict conditions. He is required to report to the East La Penitence Police
Station on the last Friday of each month.

The matter has been adjourned to February 12, 2025, as investigations and legal proceedings
continue.