MONTEGO BAY, St James — A man who was charged with stealing 10 central processing units (CPUs) from Itel International received a two-year probationary sentence during his appearance in the St James Parish Court on Wednesday.

Arthnel Edwards previously pleaded guilty to larceny as a servant. He was represented by attorney-at-law Chumu Paris.

In mitigation, Paris, who claimed to have known the defendant for more than two decades, claimed that the company had failed to meet its obligations in terms of outstanding incentives owed to Edwards. As a result, he explained, his client decided to keep the CPUs until the issue was resolved.

Paris further disclosed that Edwards is currently seeking redress through the Ministry of Labour and Social Security.

“He has always been honest and upright and did not intend to permanently deprive the company,” Paris argued, adding that Edwards is someone who always lends a helping hand and has a track record of leadership roles.

Judge Natiesha Fairclough-Hylton contended that if Edwards is owed payment and opts to retain possession of the items in question, it is only reasonable for him to notify the company of his intentions, making it clear that he will retain the items until he is compensated.

Paris then explained to the judge that his client’s actions stemmed from frustration.

However, the judge asked why Edwards took the CPUs on a daily basis if his intention was to hold on to them until he receives compensation.

The defence counsel stated that Edwards had already returned the items and had no intention of keeping them. The lawyer went on to say that the incident was a lapse in judgement, that his client has expressed regret, and that he believes Edwards is not beyond redemption.

During the sentencing process, the judge cited the social inquiry report as a good one. She also recognised the assertion made by the defence lawyer’s claim of an error in Edwards’ judgment.

In reference to Edwards’ previous leadership roles, the judge stated, “It is unfortunate that someone with your past will find themselves in this position, but I do not believe you are beyond redemption, and I do not believe the matter warrants a term of imprisonment.”

Fairclough-Hylton subsequently imposed a two-year probation sentence on Edwards.

According to the prosecution, the incident took place at Itel’s Montego Bay location about 7:30 am on August 1.

At the time, the complainant — a surveillance supervisor at the company — was informed by a colleague about suspicious activity detected on the closed-circuit television (CCTV) system located within the premises.

After reviewing the footage, the complainant discovered that between July 15 and July 25 Edwards unlawfully took 10 CPUs worth approximately US$300 each.

Edwards was detained by Itel security personnel, and the police were eventually notified, resulting in his arrest and formal charges being filed against him.