The Tribune

By DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

A GRAND Bahama businessman who pleaded guilty to causing damage at a local business establishment has been ordered by a magistrate to undergo evaluation and treatment at the Diah Ward of the Rand Memorial Hospital before sentencing.

Calvin Fowler, 46, was ordered to remain for 14 days for psychiatric assessment and treatment. Additionally, he must pay $1,751 in compensation for the damage caused, along with a $500 fine.

Fowler appeared before Magistrate LaQuay Laing charged with causing damage at Fowlco Maritime and Project Services on Queen’s Highway.

According to the prosecution, on February 25, Fowler threw two stones, shattering two glass windows at the establishment. His brother, Curtis Fowler, the principal owner of Fowlco, reported the incident to police on February 27. On March 4, police arrested Calvin Fowler.

The court heard Fowler was remorseful. “He let his emotions get the better part of him, and he ought to be given a second opportunity,” said his attorney.

The attorney pleaded with the court for leniency, saying Fowler was willing to pay for the damage and requesting a conditional discharge. In his mitigation, he noted that Fowler is a businessman and a conviction for causing harm would do more harm than good.

The lawyer said Fowler had been involved in a longstanding dispute with his family, which had escalated. He said Fowler had already arranged to see a doctor for evaluation and requested he be remanded to the Diah Ward at the Rand Memorial Hospital for 14 days instead of being sent to prison.

Magistrate Laing noted Fowler had previously been before the courts on other matters and had already been given two chances.

“This is his third chance,” Magistrate Laing said. “He is here again, and he is making a mockery of this court.”

While the magistrate acknowledged the importance of second chances, he indicated he was inclined to impose a custodial sentence. Fowler was remanded for 14 days at the Diah Ward, pending a doctor’s report. The matter was adjourned to March 18 for sentencing.