A 28-year-old man from Lodge, Georgetown, was sentenced to two years in prison on Friday after admitting to robbing a woman at gunpoint and later breaking into a shop and stealing over half a million dollars worth of items.
Jermaine Hollingsworth stood before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, where he appeared uncertain about his earlier guilty plea.
However, Magistrate McGusty reminded him of his detailed admissions just two weeks prior.
“You came to court on May 9, 2025, and pleaded guilty,” she told him firmly. “We’re not reversing. Do you remember what you said to me, sir?”
Hollingsworth confirmed that he had previously admitted to both the armed robbery and the break-in. The offences occurred earlier this month in D’Urban Street, Lodge.
On May 3, 2025, Hollingsworth robbed a woman, identified as Daphne Luke, at gunpoint, stealing her Samsung Galaxy S15 cellphone valued at $80,000.
The following night, between May 4 and 5, he and an accomplice broke into the shop of Fay Matthews and stole various items, including hats, jerseys, pants, and boxers — altogether worth more than $645,000.
In court on Friday, Hollingsworth once again acknowledged his involvement in the crimes, stating that some of the stolen items had been recovered, although he did not know the whereabouts of the rest. He also admitted to selling the stolen cellphone.
Matthews, the shop owner, was present during the proceedings and confirmed that while police managed to retrieve a few of the stolen goods, most — valued at over $400,000 — were never returned.
Also present in court was Hollingsworth’s mother, who tearfully shared that she had tried to guide her son away from crime. Addressing Hollingsworth, Magistrate McGusty acknowledged his mother’s efforts and expressed regret over his choices.
“Surely your mom did not teach you that it was right to go into people’s places and take their things. She says you have skills. You can work. But you’re choosing another path.”
Given the use of a firearm in the robbery and the high value of the stolen goods, the magistrate imposed two concurrent sentences.
Hollingsworth received 12 months imprisonment for robbery under arms and two years for break and enter and larceny. Because the sentences will run concurrently, he will serve a total of two years in prison.
Before adjourning, Magistrate McGusty urged Hollingsworth to change his course in life.
“You have time to sharpen your skills, not as a thief or gunman, but as a construction worker. When you come out, sir, do an honest job. Stop playing ducks and drakes with a gun.”
