Alleged gang leaders appear in court

Port-of-Spain: Two alleged gang leaders who were held at the Hyatt Regency hotel last Friday appeared before a Port-of-Spain magistrate this morning.

The two men were arrested and charged for alleged being members of a gang from Production Avenue in Sea Lots. Keon Dane who gave his address as 3rd Street Maraval is said to be a member of the gang, while Frederick Burke is accused of being the leader.

Attorneys representing both men including PNM Senator Fitzgerald Hinds asked for disclosure on behalf of their clients saying the allegations made against their clients are serious ones.

Attorney for Burke, Kirk Hogan argued that his arrest would affect his livelihood. He presented documents to show that his client is a registered contractor and as recently as August  was awarded a contract from the National Self Help Commission.

Hogan said his client was forced to give up another contract  for another project becuase of his imprisonment. Both matters have been adjourned to September 20th. Also police have arrested another suspected gang leader, Devinand Singh of Williams Street El Socorro.

He also appeared before Chief Magistrate Marcia Ayers Ceasar and represented by Senior Counsel Theodore Guerra.