Teen on curfew after theft charge

A 17-year-old has been placed on a 12-hour curfew and ordered to stay away from Savvy on the Bay after being charged with theft.

Amari Keshon Keon Gilkes of Parish Land, Christ Church, denied stealing a chain valued at $2 500 from Josiah Harewood on December 21 when he appeared before Acting Magistrate Oliver Thomas in the No. 1 District ‘A’ Magistrates’ Court.

Sergeant Victoria Leacock objected to bail, noting that the stolen item had not been recovered and expressing concern that Gilkes could attempt to destroy evidence or influence witnesses.

“Notwithstanding the number of robberies we have had with young people involved in recent times, we must look at the location where this occurred, Savvy on the Bay, where several of these have occurred,” the prosecutor said, stressing the need to protect the public.

Defence attorney Rasheed Gilkes highlighted his client’s age, clean record, and employment in his father’s business.

“The court is cognisant of his age, and I do not want him up at St Philip being corrupted by the more hardened criminals, so I am minded to set bail, but you will have to abide by court conditions,” Magistrate Thomas said.

Gilkes replied: “Yes, sir.”

He was granted bail of $8 000 on condition that he live with his father and observe a dusk-to-dawn curfew. He was also prohibited from entering Savvy on the Bay.

“If you breach any of these conditions, members of the Barbados Police Service will come for you,” the magistrate warned.

The case was adjourned until April 17.