Detective Sergeant Elfannando Newman has been cleared of all charges brought against him by the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) four years ago. Magistrate Sunil Scarce dismissed the matter today, citing a lack of evidence and unreliable testimony from the prosecution.
Newman, who had been interdicted from his duties within the Guyana Police Force, was accused of Larceny by a Public Officer. The allegations stemmed from an incident at the Timehri Police Station, where it was claimed that Newman stole 7 kilograms of marijuana that had come into his possession. SOCU alleged that the detective failed to lodge the narcotics as required, purportedly to protect the individual who owned the drugs.
Following a four-year legal battle, Magistrate Sunil Scarce concluded that the prosecution’s evidence was insufficient, inadequate, and unreliable to sustain a conviction. Newman’s attorney, Eusi Anderson, successfully argued for the dismissal of the charges, noting the significant impact the lengthy trial and interdiction had on his client.
With the case now closed, the focus has shifted toward the restoration of Sergeant Newman’s professional standing. His legal counsel stated that there is an expectation for Newman to be reinstated to his duties within the Guyana Police Force. Newman has expressed his desire to have his name fully cleared following the ordeal.
