Trial opens for Berbice pensioner accused of rape of child

(Kaieteur News) – The trial of an elderly man of New Amsterdam, Berbice who has been accused of engaging in sexual activities with a child got underway at the Berbice High Court on Monday.

Appearing before Justice Peter Hugh was Neil Fredericks, 65, of Philadelphia Street, New Amsterdam, who is indicted on two counts of child-related sexual engagement.

Neil Fredericks pleaded not guilty to two counts of child-related sexual activity.

For the first count of sexual activity with a child under 16 years, contrary to Section 11 (B) of the Sexual Offences Act, Chapter 8:03, it is alleged that between the first day of March, 2020, and the thirty first day of October, 2021 in the county of Berbice, Fredericks engaged in sexual activities with a child who was between the ages of 10 and 11.

On the second count for rape of a child under 16 years, contrary to Section 10 (B) of the aforementioned Act, it is alleged that between the previously stated date and location, he engaged in sexual penetration with the said child.

The summary of the indictment was presented to the court by state prosecutor, Marisa Edwards.

In response to the allegations, Fredericks pleaded not guilty to both counts, setting the trial in motion officially with the empanelling of a 12-member jury.

He is currently being represented by attorney Charlyn Artiga.

The prosecutor informed the court of her intent to use the testimonies of at least 14 witnesses, which includes relatives of the victim, officials from the Childcare and Protection Agency, Probation officers and ranks from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) stationed in Region Six.

Source: Kaieteur News