A 23-year-old man from Halley Street was remanded to prison on Wednesday after being charged with simple larceny. Simon Ifill appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts before acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty, where he pleaded not guilty to the charge.
The allegation states that on the previous Friday, during an arrangement on Mandela Avenue, Ifill stole a black Nintendo gaming console valued at $70,000 from the complainant, Byanka Barker.
During the hearing, the prosecution objected to bail, citing Ifill’s extensive criminal history, including several matters currently before the court and his recent release from custody just weeks prior. The prosecutor noted that the alleged offense occurred while Ifill was out on bail.
According to prosecution details, the gaming console had been advertised for sale on Facebook Marketplace. The complainant and Ifill initially arranged to meet along Mercedes Street before proceeding to Mandela Avenue for the item inspection. During this time, while Barker attempted to inspect the console, Ifill allegedly rode off on his motorcycle with it. Barker reportedly grabbed onto the back of the motorcycle and was dragged along the roadway for about 50 feet before she let go and fell.
The prosecution further stated that the gaming console fell from the motorcycle during the incident. Ifill allegedly turned back to retrieve the console, dropping a bank card in the process, before speeding away. Barker picked up the bank card, which later aided in identifying Ifill.
Law enforcement was subsequently able to locate and arrest Ifill, who was positively identified by the complainant.
While the charge was read, Magistrate McGusty remarked that Ifill’s name seemed familiar and inquired about his previous appearances in court. Initially, Ifill claimed he had only one prior matter; however, further questioning revealed he had appeared before the same Magistrate last year. His prior matters included offenses related to an accident and allegations involving the discharge of a loaded firearm.
After considering the prosecution’s submissions, Ifill’s lengthy court history, the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense, and public safety concerns, Magistrate McGusty denied bail. The matter has been adjourned to February 18, with Ifill remanded to prison.
