HLSCC messenger sentenced to 12 months in jail
The sentence was handed down by Justice Rita Joseph Olivetti prior to which Merry read a statement in the court and sought forgiveness for his actions.
Justice Olivetti also ordered the former messenger to repay $16,377.11, the amount that was outstanding to the College. Failure to do so and he will have to serve an additional six months in jail. The judge said he will have up to one year after release from prison to repay the compensation.
On March 6, 2012, Merry had pleaded guilty to stealing over $69,000 but not guilty to the other charges.
He pleaded guilty to one count of theft and in light of this, the Crown offered no evidence on the remaining two counts.
Furthermore, his bail was increased to $69,859.78 of which $30,000 have to be cash.
The St. Vincent national, who came to the Virgin Islands as a child, landed in hot water after investigations revealed that between February 6, 2007 and May 20, 2008 he allegedly stole $69,895.78 from the college.
In court today, Merry noted that he had forgiven himself but it was up to God to forgive also as he had turned his back on God just as Jonah in the bible did.
He also apologised to his family for the "shame" that he brought to them.
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