Barbados Today

A 20-year-old man, who breached a court-imposed bond when he burglarized the home of another man and stole his car, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison.

Shaquille Stefon Gibbons of Douglin Road, Weston, St James pleaded guilty to stealing Chad Scantlebury’s car between September 7 and 8, as well as entering the man’s home as a trespasser and making off with a $570 watch, $50 in cash and six keys worth $15.

On the night in question, Scantlebury left home for a short period without locking his door. On his return he found it ajar but went to bed. However, when he woke up the next morning he discovered the car and other items missing. The matter was reported to police and Gibbons was subsequently arrested.

Today in the Holetown Magistrates’ Court, the accused man told Magistrate Wanda Blair he had nothing to say in his defence.

“It seems as though you have decided on a certain course. You prefer staying at Dodds than to enjoy the freedom of sleeping in your bed. You have been given several chances but you have decided,” the magistrate said in response.

She then informed Gibbons of the violation to the 12-month bond imposed on him earlier this year by Magistrate Douglas Frederick. It had a $1,500 forthwith fine attached, which Gibbons was unable to pay, triggering an immediate three-month prison sentence.

Blair also sentenced him to 18 months in jail for stealing the car and nine months for the burglary. The sentences will run concurrently.