John France, a resident of Friendship, East Coast Demerara, has pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter in the 2020 killing of 18-year-old Daniel Amore. The plea was entered on Tuesday before Justice Nareshwar Harnanan at the High Court in Demerara.
The incident occurred on March 1, 2020, at Section 20 ‘A’, Friendship. According to state prosecutor Preeneta Seeraj, the altercation began when Amore’s stepfather, James Dublin, and France’s father, Andrew Haslyn, were drinking at a shop. A dispute ensued between the two men, escalating into a confrontation that involved France and Amore.
During the altercation, France fatally attacked Amore. Initially charged with murder, France opted to plead guilty to manslaughter, admitting responsibility for his actions without acknowledging premeditation. The court is now set to deliberate on an appropriate sentence.
This case highlights the tragic consequences of disputes spiraling out of control and serves as a somber reminder of the need for conflict resolution within communities. The sentencing will determine the legal repercussions for France’s actions as the court seeks to balance justice and accountability.
