D’Andre Perry, a resident of Stanleytown, New Amsterdam, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to a charge related to a horrific sexual crime against a nine-year-old girl.
The trial, which began in December 2025, saw Perry, then 27 years old, admit to the offense during proceedings held at the Berbice High Court before Justice Sandil Kissoon. The crime occurred on October 19, 2024, when the young girl was en route to visit her grandfather. Perry approached her and committed the assault before fleeing the scene upon the girl’s desperate cries for help.
Following the incident, the visibly shaken girl made her way to a relative’s home, where she revealed what had transpired. She was subsequently taken to the hospital, having suffered significant injuries that required surgery; reports indicated that she lost one liter of blood as a direct result of the assault.
During sentencing, Senior Social Services Officer Judith Fulton presented probation reports, revealing that Perry had grown up in an orphanage and had previously worked with the Ministry of Social Protection. In court, Perry expressed shame over his actions, apologizing to the victim and her family. He noted that the victim’s mother had treated him like a son and requested the court’s forgiveness.
Perry’s attorney, Kevin Morgan, called for a fair sentence, emphasizing that his client acknowledges his mistakes and is committed to personal reform. Morgan argued for leniency, highlighting that the incident was isolated and urging the court to focus on deterrence and rehabilitation rather than punitive measures alone.
However, Justice Kissoon emphasized the severe and lasting impact such crimes have on victims, their families, and the broader community. He noted that individuals who exploit children, particularly those in trusted roles, inflict profound emotional damage that can endure far beyond the immediate act. After considering various factors, the court imposed the sentence, reflecting the gravity of the offense and its consequences.
