April 30, 2025
KINGSTON, Jamaica — A case management hearing has been set for an elderly man facing ganja-related charges after his appearance at the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court on Tuesday.
Van Edwards stood before presiding judge Sanchia Burrell to answer to charges of possession of ganja, dealing in ganja and using premises for sale of ganja.
Edwards took accountability for the nine pounds of ganja found on the premises where he said his daughter and some other persons had occupied at the time of his arrest.
He requested a lawyer and when asked by Burrell, “what you need a lawyer for?” Edwards replied “to beg for me.”
The matter was stood down and Edwards stepped out with an attorney to discuss the matter. He then returned to request legal aid counsel.
An attorney stepped in but Burrell said she was bothered by the fact that, based on Edwards’ explanation, it seemed like he was coerced into taking responsibility to protect his daughter and the other individuals who occupied the premises.
Edwards is to return to court on June 24 for a case management hearing.