A 28-year-old man from East Bank Berbice has been remanded to prison after being charged with rape and attempted murder involving the mother of his child.
Christopher Ali, a seaman of Pepper Street, Edinburgh, appeared on Thursday before Magistrate Michelle Matthias at the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court. Ali was not required to plead to the indictable charges.
Charges laid against Ali
- The first charge alleges that between December 1 and 31, 2024, Ali engaged in sexual penetration of 15-year-old Tiana Chapman.
- The second charge states that on February 24, 2026, at Heat Burn Village, he attempted to murder and unlawfully wounded Chapman.
Bail denied
Police Prosecutor Sergeant Colin Clarke objected to bail, citing the seriousness of the offences, the accused’s alleged attempt to flee the jurisdiction, and concerns for the victim’s safety.
The court heard that Chapman suffered 25 stab wounds during the February 24 attack.
After considering the charges, the victim’s safety and the risk of flight, Magistrate Matthias refused bail and remanded Ali to prison on both matters. He is expected to return to court on April 16.
Victim’s condition and relationship
Chapman, who was present in court, is said to be recovering after being hospitalised in the Intensive Care Unit following the stabbing. Reports indicate Ali and Chapman had been in a relationship and they share an 11-month-old child.
Separate earlier incident
The court also heard that Ali was reportedly found in the Upper Berbice River on March 14, where he was allegedly beaten and chopped by unknown individuals. He was later taken for medical treatment before being placed in police custody.
Police investigations into the circumstances surrounding the stabbing are ongoing.
