National footballer charged with illegal possession of firearm
A national footballer was denied bail yesterday after being charged with illegally having an Astra pistol in his possession.
Richie Richards, 30, of Lot 194 Campbellville Housing Scheme, Georgetown, was arraigned before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrate’s Court where he answered to the charge. He pleaded not guilty to having a .22 Astra pistol in his possession on January 3, at Stone Avenue, Campbellville, Georgetown, when he was not the holder of a firearm licence in force at the time.
According to the police prosecutor, at about 17:00 hrs police ranks were on mobile patrol in the vicinity of Stone Avenue, Campbellville when they received information concerning Richards. The police then went to the street, where Sergeant Reid saw Richards walking. The sergeant then asked Richards to let him conduct a search. The sergeant was granted permission and upon checking the man, found a .22 Astra pistol and an empty matching magazine in the right side front pocket of his pants. Richards allegedly admitted that he was not the owner of a gun licence. He was then cautioned, arrested, and taken to the Kitty Police Station.
The police prosecutor objected to Richards’ release and told the court that based on the prevalence and serious nature of the offence, the man should be remanded. In addition, the prosecutor argued that the firearm was found in the man’s possession and expressed concern that he might not return to court for the trial if
granted bail.
Richards in his plea for bail told the court that he is a national footballer who plays for a well-known team. However, he was denied bail and told the matter would be called again on January 26.