Septic tank murder accused jailed for 117 years

JUSTICE Roxanne George, presiding at the Demerara Assizes, on Wednesday sentenced the two remaining accused in the 2007 septic tank murder case to a total 0f 117 years. The two accused,Anthony Hope,called “Papa”, and Ralph Tyndall, called “Nick”, were accused of murdering Colleen Forrester of William Street,Campbellville. The Judge‘s sentence followed presentation of probation reports by senior probation officers, and pleas for mitigation by Defence Counsel, Mr. Madan Kissoon for Tyndall, and Mr Meilvern Duke for Hope, the master-mind. The third man who had been charged, Kevin O’Neil, was earlier freed on a no-case submission by his counsel, Mr. George Thomas. Thomas’ submission was based on the ground that O’Neil was more of a spectator than a participant; the judge had agreed with the submission. According to the evidence, the two accused had beaten Forrester to death, and later wrapped her body with sheets, and placed same in a septic tank at 55 William Street, Campbellville. Forrester, who was a caretaker for the home, was also the aunt of Number One accused, “Papa”. The accused were charged with murder after the discovery of Forrester’s body, and had pleaded not guilty,placing the blame on each other. The courtroom was jam-packed Wednesday afternoon as curious spectators, friends of the deceased and the accused had come to hear the sentence. Justice George had earlier stated that she had not yet made up her mind as to whether she would impose the death penalty or inflict a lengthy prison sentence. Defence Counsel Mr. Madan Kissoon, whose client Mr. Ralph Tyndall was given the lighter sentence of 55 years, indicated that he would appeal. Counsel for Hope did not say anything.

By George Barclay