Second chance for accused youth

Port of Spain Fifth Court magistrate Andre Darmanie urged Martin to use the opportunity he was given wisely. “You have been given a chance in life and it is now up to you to make sure you do not end up here again,” Darmanie said. He said we are living in a world where people are being murdered everyday with the use of illegal firearms.

“The proliferation of illegal guns is not to be taken lightly and no court intends to do so.” He said all factors including his age,admission of guilt and his remorse showm involved in Martin’s case were considered. Darmanie said he was not planning to give Martin a custodial sentence, however he will not get off scot-free.

Martin was fined a total of $15,000 and has seven days to pay or serve six months in prison with hard labour. Darmanie said even after paying the fine, Martin will no longer have access to the “benefits” which other citizens enjoy as he now has a “dirty” record. Martin was arrested on Wednesday last by police who stopped a car at Lady Young Road in Belmont.

The car was being driven by 32-year-old Hugh Isaac. The court was told the men were ordered to exit the car which was searched.

Police said they found the gun and the ammunition. The men were arrested and taken into custody.