The Tribune

By LAMECH JOHNSON

Tribune Staff Reporter

ljohnson@tribunemedia.net

THE Court of Appeal yesterday commended a man who withdrew his appeal against conviction for firearm possession to take responsibility for his actions and learn from his mistake.

Justice Anita Allen made the commendation after Dario Williams, through his attorney Ian Cargill, withdrew an appeal application to challenge a three-year prison sentence recently handed down by Deputy Chief Magistrate Carolita Bethell for possession of a firearm.

“Thank you. That is commendable, Mr Williams,” Justice Anita Allen said.

William’s withdrawal came after Mr Cargill addressed Justices Allen, Stanley John and Abdulai Conteh.

Mr Cargill said that his client, having gone over the evidence and all the current circumstances, “wishes to withdraw the appeal.”

“He said he is just prepared to do his time, take responsibility for his actions and move on with his life,” the lawyer said, adding for the record that he is personally commending his client for not only saving the court’s time, but also being responsible.

Mr Cargill noted that his client, who had been on bail before his conviction, had never committed an offence or been in trouble with the law and his client’s action cemented him as a responsible person.

Justice Allen thanked and commended the appellant and then told him that she hoped his time in prison would allow him to further his education and skills where possible.

Mr Cargill added that his client “has asked to write a letter to Mr Rahming (Supt of the prison) to see if he could get into one of the programmes and take up a trade.”

The court acknowledged the request.

At this point, Justice John inquired about Williams being on bail for a month after his conviction and sentencing, July 25.

Mr Cargill indicated that his client was allowed bail pending his appeal.

Justice Allen asked Mr Collie to verify this. Mr Collie agreed that the date of conviction and sentencing was correct. However, he did not have the bail file on hand and could not say.

Mr Cargill noted that bail was granted on September 21.

The court dismissed the appeal and affirmed the magistrate’s conviction. He was committed to serve two years and 10 months in prison.