Cop charged with stealing gun, ammo from TSU

A 21-year-old Police Constable attached to the Tactical Services Unit (TSU) was on Friday charged with stealing a firearm from the Guyana Police Force.

Keon Johnson of Tain, Berbice appeared before Magistrate Judy Latchman at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court, where he pleaded not guilty to simple larceny.

Johnson denied that on August 27, 2017, at TSU Headquarters, Eve Leary he stole a 9mm piston valued $375,000 along with 10 rounds of ammunition, the property of GPF.

His Attorney, Melvin Duke told the court that Johnson is expecting a baby with his reputed wife within the next two months. Duke further added that the Constable has been serving the Force for more than three years and was placed on open arrest pending investigation.

Police Prosecutor, Shawn Gonsalves told the court that Johnson along with several others was caught by police in Den Amstel, West Coast Demerara gambling. Johnson was searched and the firearm was found in his crotch.

Gonsalves further told the court the accused confessed to Police that he stole the gun from TSU. Magistrate Latchman released the constable on $200,000 bail with no objection from the prosecution and adjourned the matter to October 27.

Meanwhile, Johnson is expected to be placed before the Leonora Magistrate’s Court to face charges relating to the illegal possession of a gun and ammunition.