The attempted murder trial of Vishnu Deogeenarine, accused of a brutal assault in 2018, commenced on Monday at the Berbice High Court. In front of Justice Deborah Kumar and a twelve-member jury, Deogeenarine pleaded not guilty to charges of wounding and felonious wounding stemming from an incident involving Derick Drepaul at Kilmarnock Village.
State Prosecutor Marisa Edwards outlined the prosecution’s case, indicating that ten witnesses, including police and the alleged victim, would testify. On the first day, seven witnesses, including Drepaul, took the stand.
Drepaul recounted the events of the night in question, stating he left home for a wedding and encountered friends before the attack. He alleged that Deogeenarine struck him on the head with a wooden object, causing him to fall. After being helped by his brother-in-law, Drepaul claimed he was struck again, leading to unconsciousness. He was later treated for a serious head injury at the Georgetown Public Hospital.
During cross-examination, Attorney Charlyn Artiga questioned Drepaul’s claims about not knowing Deogeenarine, referencing prior statements suggesting they were related. Drepaul maintained that he was the victim and denied accusations that he and his friends had attacked Deogeenarine.
As the trial proceeds, the jury will evaluate the evidence before a verdict is reached, with Justice Kumar overseeing the proceedings.
