I Battled for Survival as My Life Was in Danger

A mentally ill man, Wensley Williams, was sentenced to a minimum of eight years in prison for killing his younger brother, Cleveland Hodge, in May 2020. Williams, also known as “Pooh Bear,” was found guilty of the crime by a jury, who also determined that he was insane at the time of the incident. Williams had a history of mental instability, which stemmed from his involvement in selling drugs in his 30s.

Neighbours characterized Williams as troublesome and a menace in their community, expressing concern about their safety if he were to be released from prison. Williams claimed self-defense, stating that he was attacked by his brother and another man armed with a cutlass and a piece of wood on the day of the incident. Despite apologizing for his actions, Williams hoped to be eventually freed from prison to care for his deceased brother’s children.

Williams’ attorney, Candaice Adams, emphasized the sad and unfortunate circumstances surrounding the case and appealed for leniency, citing Williams’ clean criminal record, remorse, and good behavior as a prisoner. State Counsel Joy Williams argued that Hodge, the deceased, was deprived of the opportunity for a prosperous life and his children were left without their father’s love. The sentencing aim was to convey that society will not tolerate unlawful homicide, while also ensuring that Williams receives help for his rehabilitation.

The High Court Judge sentenced Williams to a minimum of eight years in prison, considering the need to confine him in a safe place for both public safety and his own. Instructions were given to the Guyana Prison Service for his mental health evaluations and treatments, skill training, and individualized therapy. Periodic reviews will be held every two years starting in 2026, considering his behavior, response to rehabilitation programs, and readiness for societal reintegration before releasing him under appropriate conditions.

Cleveland Hodge, a gold miner, was fatally stabbed by his brother Wensley on May 21, 2020. The incident occurred while Wensley was under psychiatric care. Hodge tried to prevent his brother from harming himself but was attacked with a knife, resulting in multiple injuries. Despite receiving treatment at the Diamond Diagnostic Centre, Hodge’s condition worsened, leading to his transfer to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he succumbed to his injuries the following day.