Senior Reporter
kevon.felmine@guardian.co.tt
Two weeks after 63-year-old Ramesh Lalbeharry died following what was initially reported as a fall from a coconut tree, homicide detectives have charged his son in connection with his death.
Investigators met yesterday with Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Sabrina Jaglal, who, after reviewing the evidence, advised that a 41-year-old man be charged with manslaughter. Acting Corporal Huggins was expected to formally lay the charge later in the day, with the accused scheduled to appear virtually before the San Fernando Magistrates’ Court today.
Police investigations have since cast doubt on the early account of the incident. According to the initial report, around 3 pm on December 31, Lalbeharry was at his home along Hassanali Trace, Barrackpore drinking alcohol with relatives when a dispute reportedly erupted with a family member. He later walked to the back of the house, where relatives eventually found him lying beneath a coconut tree.
In an interview with reporters, a relative said he discovered Lalbeharry under the tree and assisted him back into the house. When he returned the following day, he was told Lalbeharry had been intoxicated and had struck his head several times.
On January 3, police were informed that Lalbeharry was taken to the San Fernando General Hospital, complaining of pain and nausea. He was admitted to a ward but died from his injuries three days later. A report was subsequently made at the Barrackpore Police Station the following day.
An autopsy conducted at the Forensic Science Centre in St James challenged the claim that Lalbeharry’s injuries were the result of a fall. A pathologist determined the cause of death to be multiple blunt force trauma, prompting homicide detectives to intensify their investigation and consult with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident, a Moruga man was expected to appear before the Princes Town AJIPA Court, charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
According to police, the accused allegedly wounded a resident along Edward Trace on January 16. He was later arrested as investigations continued. PC Dookeran obtained medical reports on the victim, interviewed the suspect and submitted a file to supervisors before receiving charging instructions from W/Supt Bridglal.
