Shivanie Persaud, a mother of two from Adventure, Region Two, is fervently advocating for her husband, Collin Henry, who she claims was wrongfully accused of break-and-enter and robbery. Henry, who was arrested on July 22, has been charged and remanded to prison, with the case set for an adjourned hearing on August 15 at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court.
Speaking to the News Room on Thursday, Persaud recounted the unsettling events of the early hours of July 22, when four police officers reportedly entered their home, causing significant damage to their television, DVD set, and carpets. According to Persaud, she received an alarming call from her husband, who informed her of the police’s arrival. When she arrived home, she found her children in distress, hiding in a back bedroom. When questioned, they told Persaud that an officer was pointing a gun at them while demanding to know the location of a motorbike.
The police had already arrested Henry and took him to the station, claiming his alleged involvement in a break-and-enter and robbery that occurred on July 21, 2024, at the residence of Marva Chappelle, a 49-year-old domestic worker from Onderneeming Sand Pit, Essequibo Coast. Henry appeared in court on July 24, 2024, where he pleaded not guilty to the charges. Despite his plea, bail was denied, and he remains in custody.
Persaud is adamant about her husband’s innocence. She contends that CCTV footage does not match Henry’s appearance, noting that the individual in the footage lacks the distinctive tattoos present on Henry’s hands. She further argues that Henry’s recent struggles, including the loss of a newly acquired security job due to these allegations, and societal stigma following his prior incarceration is good reason for the police to ensure a thorough and fair examination of the case.
Persaud is calling on authorities to reopen even a previous investigation, claiming to have evidence such as eyewitness testimonies and text messages that she believes prove Henry’s presence. Her plea for justice is driven by her fear that a repeat of his wrongful imprisonment would have devastating consequences for their family.
