Four take advantage of plea deal offer in Portland Circuit Court

Four accused persons have taken advantage of the Justice Ministry's plea deal in the Portland Circuit Court.

Just two weeks into the Michaelmas Session of the court, two persons have pleaded guilty to illegal possession of firearm, one for having sex with a minor, and one for wounding with intent.

One man was acquitted of incest.

The guilty pleas come as a part of the push by the Justice Ministry's to offer reduced-sentences to accused persons who opt not to waste the court's time and enter guilty pleas.

This is in a bid to reduce the huge backlog of cases before the courts.

The four persons, who entered a guilty plea, are to return to court next week for sentencing.