The court case involving four of the seven accused linked to the deadly gas station explosion at Regent Street, Georgetown, was called again on Wednesday, with March 10 set for the commencement of paper committal proceedings. The case is being heard before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.
During the session, Prosecutor Mandel Moore informed the court that one of the accused, Johnny Boodram, cannot read English, though he can speak it. His statements are currently being translated and are expected to be provided to him later today.
The magistrate noted receiving several documents and statements from Attorney Mikel Puran, representing Boodram. Additionally, lawyer Kiswana Jefford, who represents another accused, Krystal LaCruz, stated that statements for her client were filed as of January 28.
The prosecution has applied for the matter to proceed by paper committal, which allows the court to review written evidence rather than hearing live testimony at this stage. The magistrate clarified that the charges involve serious allegations, including actions leading to the death of a six-year-old child, alongside terrorism-related charges.
Jefford requested that the court permit a hybrid process to allow the defense to cross-examine key witnesses; however, the magistrate ruled that this is not permissible under the paper committal act.
During these proceedings, the magistrate will determine the admissibility of the evidence and whether a prima facie case exists to send the matter to trial in the High Court. She also requested that a list of witnesses be provided to the prosecution.
The accused now before the court are Boodram, LaCruz, and Venezuelan nationals Daniel Alexander Ramirez Poedemo and Alexander Bettancourt. Poedemo is reported to be the alleged mastermind behind the explosion, which authorities have described as a coordinated act.
The other three accused — Wayne Correia, Ramesh Pramdeo, and Jennifer Rodriguez — are facing separate charges in different magisterial districts. Further updates are expected as the case progresses.
