THIRTY-THREE-year-old dredge owner Ryan Couchman of Lot 1360 Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank of Demerara was yesterday granted $150,000 bail for allegedly discharging a loaded firearm at a former employee.Couchman pleaded not guilty to the allegation that on Saturday, December 21, 2013, at Georgetown, he discharged a loaded firearm with intent to harm or disfigure Jarred Hamilton.
Police prosecutor Corporal Bharat Mangru told the court that Hamilton had been employed with Couchman, and on the day in question, Hamilton saw Couchman and others sitting in a car, and approached him to inquire about money which Couchman had owed him.
Couchman reportedly became annoyed and punched Hamilton to his mouth. Later that day, Hamilton again saw Couchman, but this time Couchman allegedly drew a firearm and gun-butted Hamilton to his head, after which he discharged two rounds at Hamilton, one of which hit him in the right leg, before making good his escape.
Attorney-at-law, Mr. George Thomas, representing Couchman, requested that bail be granted at a reasonable sum, since the offence is bailable. Thomas said his client has no reason to tamper with any witness, and is willing to report to the police.
The prosecutor did not object to bail, but asked that the sum be substantial. Bail was granted, and Couchman was ordered to report to the police every Friday at 5.00 pm.
The case was put off to February 7.