A 16-year-old boy is now out on $7,000 bail after pleading not guilty to a gun possession charge.

Kenroy McBarnette of Georgetown was charged with having a Smith and Wesson .38 revolver at the La Soufriere Mountains on May 18, 2009.{{more}}

However, before he was granted bail Prosecutor Inspector Nigel Butcher objected. The prosecutor voiced his fears that if the young boy was granted bail, he would flee to La Soufriere and it would be difficult to find him. Butcher also reminded the court of the seriousness of the crime and the prevalence of gun crimes here in St Vincent.

Speaking on his client’s behalf, attorney Ronald Marks said that he is aware of the seriousness of the crime but there is still a presumption of innocence that works in McBarnette’s favour. He further stated that McBarnette had suitable sureties and that the Magistrate could apply conditions to his bail.

In addition to his bail, McBarnette was ordered to report to the Georgetown Police Station seven days a week between the hours of 6am to 6pm. He is also on a 7am to 5pm curfew.

The matter was adjourned to July 28, 2009.