Judge: Mr Quashie should have shot all of you

As far as Justice Frederick Bruce-Lyle is concerned, Truman ‘Chewee’ Quashie should have shot all of the men who came to his business place in an attempt to rob him, last year.{{more}}

The outspoken judge made his comments on Wednesday, at the High Court, just before sentencing 21-year-old Darron Shallow and 22-year-old Jolarney ‘Lonny’ David, on charges of attempted robbery; possession of a firearm with intent to commit an offence; possession of a firearm without a license and possession of a 12-gauge ammunition cartridge.

“I won’t send you to jail, but this will be jail of another kind,” Bruce-Lyle said.

The judge sentenced the men to a three-year bond in the sum of $10,000 and a five-year, 6 p.m. – 5 a.m. curfew. In breach, both men will go to prison for 10 years.

“I want to ask why? Two young persons from humble and good families; look at the shame you have put on these people. You know what impact this would have on your life and your future?” Bruce-Lyle questioned.

The men, along with a Trinidadian man, Christopher ‘South’ Jack Joseph who was shot and killed by Quashie, attempted to rob the business place in the wee hours of July 23, 2011, at Villa. A 15-year-old boy was also charged in the matter, but those charges were later dropped.

“…As far as I am concerned, Mr Quashie should have shot all of you. You are a menace to society. The only thing going for you is your age; it is your first offence and you were led by South…,” said Bruce-Lyle.

The judge further stated that he would have done the same if he was Quashie, stating that he [Quashie] is a “hard working” man that has been robbed so many times.

“You came 31st for boys and you went to the Community College and this is what you want to do with your life?… And David, you have had breaks in your life and your father has taken you into the mechanic business so one day you can take over and this is what you do?” questioned the judge.

Calling the boys’ parents to stand next to them, Bruce-Lyle said, “You see the disgrace you brought on your mother? You see the disgrace you brought on your father?”

“It is time parents take responsibility of the actions of their children. Too many of our youth are qualifying with proper papers to enhance their lives and are also qualifying as criminals…,” Bruce-Lyle added.

“For the next five years, no carnival, no movies, you understand! If you break it, 10 years…”

The judge also ordered that Shallow stay with his mother and David in the care of his father.

Bruce-Lyle added that if the jury had found the men guilty, he would have sentenced them to 15 years in jail. (KW)