Uchence Gang Trial | Witness stands behind testimony, denies striking deal with cops
Published:Wednesday | April 3, 2019 | 12:00 AMNickoy Wilson/Gleaner Writer
Despite rigorous attempts by defence attorneys to discredit a witness in the ongoing trial of Uchence Wilson and his 23 alleged gang members yesterday, he maintained that he told the truth during his week-long testimony to the court.
The witness, who is said to be a former member of the Uchence Wilson Gang, testified that he had transported members to various locations where they carried out robberies. He also told the court that various gang members related what took place on robberies when he was absent.
Lloyd McFarlane, attorney representing reputed gang leader Wilson, suggested that his client did not tell the witness about being shot.
The witness did not agree with the suggestion.
He also disagreed with the attorney’s suggestion that he was lying when he said Wilson told him about a robbery that took place in Kellits, Clarendon.
The witness was testifying via video link as the trial for Wilson and his 23 alleged cronies continued in the Home Circuit Court.
On Monday, the witness said that he decided to speak out against the gang because he was not pleased with what was happening. He also expressed fears for what would happen to him and his family.
Attorney-at-law C.J. Mitchell, who is representing accused Fitzroy Scott, questioned the witness’ motivation for testifying.
Mitchell asked, “When did you become displeased about the gang’s operation?”
“I don’t keep track of that time, sir,” the witness replied.
The gangster-turned-witness also rejected suggestions that he was given a deal.
Mitchell said, “I am suggesting to you that you cut a deal with the police and the deal was to give statements.”
The witness answered, “No, sir,” adding that he does not know if and when he will be charged.
He also rejected suggestions that he was lying when he said Scott was present on location at the some of the robberies mentioned during his testimony.
Later in the proceedings, attorney-at-law Vanessa Taylor suggested that her client, Stephenson ‘Slim’ Bennett, was not present at the robberies as detailed by the witness.
The former gang member did not agree with her assertions.
The 24 accused are on trial for breaches of the Criminal Justice (Suppression of Criminal Organisations) Act 2014, commonly referred to as the anti-gang legislation, for crimes allegedly committed between 2015 and 2017.