Man sentenced to four years in prison for manslaughter of friend

Vivian Ross, a 46-year-old shoemaker from Rose Hall, Corentyne, Berbice, was sentenced to four years in prison for killing his friend, Wayne Sundarsingh, while they were drinking. Ross pleaded guilty to manslaughter as part of a plea bargain, acknowledging that he unlawfully killed Sundarsingh on July 13, 2018. He apologized to the deceased’s family during his sentencing hearing, attributing his actions to drinking too much rum. Justice Jo Ann Barlow of the Berbice High Court sentenced Ross to four years in prison and recommended counseling programs for violent offenders for him.

Upon his release from prison, the judge advised Ross to reduce his alcohol consumption. Senior Counsel Murseline Bacchus represented Ross, while State Counsel Muntaz Ali presented the case for the prosecution. Sundarsingh, a painter, was allegedly drinking with friends at Ross’s home when he was struck in the head by Ross. Hours later, Sundarsingh’s family was notified that he was unconscious and instructed to collect him. Upon arrival, they found him barely breathing, bleeding from his ears and head. He was rushed to the hospital but died from haemorrhaging caused by blunt trauma to the head.

Ross initially claimed to police that he had hit Sundarsingh, causing him to fall and hit his head on the ground. The incident resulted in Sundarsingh’s tragic death. Justice Barlow expressed belief in Ross’s sincere apologies to the deceased’s family during the sentencing remarks. She also emphasized the importance of enrolling Ross in counseling programs for violent offenders as part of his rehabilitation. The judge’s decision to sentence Ross to four years in prison took into account the time he had already spent in remand.

The tragic incident involving Ross and Sundarsingh occurred during a drinking session at Ross’s home, where violence erupted leading to the fatal injury. Sundarsingh’s family was devastated by his sudden death and the circumstances surrounding it. Ross’s decision to take responsibility for his actions and plead guilty to manslaughter instead of murder played a significant role in the court’s sentencing decision. The judge’s recommendation for counseling programs post-release highlights the importance of rehabilitation and addressing the root causes of violent behavior.

Overall, Vivian Ross’s sentencing to four years in prison for the manslaughter of Wayne Sundarsingh serves as a reminder of the consequences of alcohol-fueled violence. The judge’s emphasis on counseling for Ross as part of his rehabilitation process underscores the need for addressing underlying issues to prevent future harm. Ross’s remorse and apology to the deceased’s family demonstrate the impact of his actions and the importance of seeking accountability. The tragic outcome of this case highlights the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption and the need for intervention to prevent similar incidents in the future.