A 23-year-old nurse aide, Tianna Serena Lewis-King, was remanded to prison on Friday after being charged with inciting acts of terrorism, a development that has intensified scrutiny on the role of misinformation in recent public unrest.
Lewis-King, who worked at the Georgetown Public Hospital and resides in Better Hope, East Coast Demerara, appeared before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. She was not required to enter a plea to the indictable charge, which stems from a widely circulated voice recording in which she falsely claimed to have attended the post-mortem examination of 11-year-old Adrianna Younge-a claim authorities have categorically denied.
The prosecution objected to bail, citing the gravity of the offence and the potential for further public disorder. The court heard that Lewis-King’s statements, made in the aftermath of Younge’s tragic drowning, were intended to create public mischief and incite fear, contributing to widespread unrest in several communities. The recording, which was shared extensively on social media, falsely alleged that the child was sexually assaulted and that government officials were involved in a cover-up.
Authorities have confirmed that Lewis-King was never present at the autopsy, as verified by video footage and statements from the three foreign pathologists who conducted the examination. The Minister of Health also denied any involvement or knowledge of Lewis-King’s claims.
Following her arrest on May 5, after responding to a police wanted bulletin, Lewis-King was formally charged under Section 309A(2) of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act. The case has been adjourned to May 30, with Lewis-King remaining in custody until her next court appearance.
The incident has reignited national debate about the dangers of misinformation and the legal consequences for those accused of inciting public unrest through false statements. Authorities have pledged to continue their investigations as they seek to restore order and public confidence in the wake of recent disturbances.
