Venezuelan charged with falsifying registration granted $150,000 bail

A 28-year-old Venezuelan national living and working in Guyana appeared before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Monday to face a charge of conspiracy to falsify registration information.

Zulianny Maria Ledera, of D.D. Bent Street, Georgetown, stood before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty, with the assistance of a Spanish interpreter as the charge was read.

According to the allegation, between July 1 and September 27, 2004, Ledera allegedly conspired with another individual to submit false information on a registration form, claiming she was born in Guyana, despite knowing the statement to be untrue.

Ledera, who has reportedly worked as a waitress at Palm Court for the past three years, was represented by Attorney-at-Law Stacy Goodings. She became visibly emotional during the proceedings, breaking down in tears as the charge was explained in Spanish.

When asked to plead, Ledera repeatedly said “no” through the interpreter and appeared confused about whether to admit or deny the allegation. Magistrate McGusty subsequently entered a not guilty plea on her behalf.

Attorney Goodings, during a bail application, told the court that her client has lived in Guyana for seven years, maintains a tenancy agreement, and has strong community ties. She also stated that Ledera denies involvement in the alleged offence.

The magistrate inquired whether Ledera had any legal identification or residency documentation; none were provided.

After considering the submissions, Magistrate McGusty granted bail of $150,000 and ordered Ledera to report to the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters on the second and fourth Monday of each month until the matter is concluded.

The case was adjourned to November 7.