Vendor remanded over repeat Marijuana trafficking claims

January 29 2025

A 26-year-old vendor was remanded to prison after bail was refused when he appeared before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on a charge of possession of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking.

Andre James, of Lot 617 Trotman Street, ‘A’ Field, Sophia, Greater Georgetown, appeared before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty to answer the charge.

The charge against him stems from an incident that allegedly occurred on January 21 at Water Street, Georgetown.

James is accused of having 38.6 grams of marijuana in his possession for the purpose of trafficking. He pleaded not guilty to the offence.

During the bail hearing, the prosecution objected to James’ release, informing the court that he had similar narcotics-related matters and was on bail at the time the current offence was allegedly committed.

Prosecutors argued that granting bail posed a risk of reoffending.

In response, James told the court that he had been victimised by a police officer whom he claimed had been targeting him for some time.

Although he said he did not know the officer’s name, James stated that he would be able to identify him and alleged that the officer had previously threatened to ensure he was sent to prison.

James further told the court that on the day of the alleged offence, the officer accused him of having marijuana but nothing was found on his person.

He maintained that the narcotics were discovered on the ground and not in his possession. He clarified that he was not alleging that the drugs were planted, but insisted they did not belong to him.

The accused also denied the prosecution’s assertion that he had multiple similar matters before the court.

However, the magistrate was informed that James had previously appeared before the court on comparable charges.

The court was told that on June 7, 2025, James was charged after allegedly being found with 35.6 grams of cannabis at the Stabroek Market.

In that matter, prosecutors had stated that the narcotics were found on his person and that James admitted it was part of his “side hustle.”

James had denied the allegation, claiming at the time that the drugs were found on a nearby stand and not on him.

He also told the court that he is a vendor who sells cigarettes and tobacco and is not involved in illegal drugs.

He was subsequently granted bail in the sum of $35,000 and the matter was adjourned.

Additionally, the court was informed that James was granted bail on November 21, 2025, in another similar matter.

In refusing bail, Magistrate McGusty noted that despite the accused’s continued denial of having multiple cases before the court, the information presented indicated that he had several matters pending.

She added that the current offence was allegedly committed while he was on bail.

The magistrate expressed concern that granting bail could result in a repetition of similar offences.

James was therefore remanded to prison and is scheduled to return to court on February 13.