Saved by studies – offender told to finish school

A 21 year-old car washer’s academic exploits has spared him from penalties in the Magistrate’s Court, where he appeared on a drug charge.

Shaquille Benjamin was charged with possession of 25.4 grams of marijuana. He pleaded guilty.

During his sentencing hearing before Senior Magistrate Tamia Richards this month, Benjamin told the court that he was studying marine courses.

While mitigating on his own behalf, the youngster appealed for a chance to continue his studies.

“I am asking for a little leniency to better myself,” the resident of Belle Vue said.

Senior Magistrate Richards, who noted the youngster’s appeal, put him on a $1,500 bond probation. She told him that he would not have to pay the money if he completes the marine studies.

Meanwhile, the court was told that members of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force were on mobile patrol in the Cane Garden bay area on March 4 this year, when they smelt marijuana.

The law enforcers spotted Benjamin in the area and accosted him.

They searched the youngster and retrieved a transparent bag from his person.

The bag reportedly contained green vegetable matter that was found to be marijuana.

When cautioned in relation to the contents of the bag, Benjamin initially said: “Officer, that ain’t mine.”

He was charged, and further investigations continued.