Akini Walker of Cassada Gardens was slapped with 4-years and 4-months prison term when he appeared in the St. John’s Magistrate’s court for sentencing on Wednesday.
Walker, 27, previously pleaded guilty to the possession of a FN70 high-powered rifle and 18 rounds of ammunition. The magistrate sentenced him to 4-years and 4-months for the possession of the firearm and a further two-years for the possession of the ammunition. Both sentences are to run concurrently.
The magistrate was particularly concerned that a civilian would have in his possession such a powerful firearm. “The firearm is particularly dangerous. From the facts given by the learned prosecutor, I quote, “the firearm is an extremely deadly weapon known as a battle rifle which originated from Belgium. It can fire a total of 650 to 700 rounds of ammunition per minute. This firearm has a range of 1000 metres. The only ballistic vests that are able to withstand one of these rounds is a level III vest specifically designed with hard armor plates none of which is available to the Police of Defence Force in Antigua and Barbuda,” the magistrate told the defendant and his attorney.
In a statement, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda said it remains committed to combating illegal drugs and firearm offences.
Meanwhile, Devonte Green of Kentish Road, Rolando Watts of Union Road, Hatton, and Otnell Roberts of Jennings Extension all appeared in court on separate drug-related charges.
Devonte Green was charged with unlawful possession of 93 grams of cannabis and possession with Intent to Transfer. He pleaded guilty to the charge of possession and was convicted and fined $2,000 to be paid within thirty (30) days or serve thirty (30) days at His Majesty’s Prison in default. The charge of possession with intent to transfer was withdrawn.
Rolando Watts pleaded guilty to possession of four (4) grams of cocaine, and was fined $500 to be paid within seven (7) days, or serve ninety (90) days at His Majesty’s Prison in default.
Otnell Roberts, on the other hand, was remanded to His Majesty’s Prison pending sentencing on June 13. He pleaded guilty to possession of 576 grams of cannabis.
Similarly, Sheldon Sambury of Bendals was remanded to prison until Thursday, June 12, pending sentencing for unlawful possession one (1) Smith and Wesson .357 Magnum Revolver, and possession of eight (8) .357mm rounds of ammunition. The defendant pleaded guilty to both charges.
