Woman sentenced to seven years for fatal stabbing of young mother

Shamirika-Gibson

A 23-year-old Georgetown woman was sentenced on Wednesday to seven years in prison for the 2022 killing of Carol Davidson, a 21-year-old mother of two. Acting Chief Justice Navindra Singh handed down the sentence at the High Court in Demerara after the accused, Shamirika Gibson, pleaded guilty to manslaughter.

Gibson, formerly of the North East La Penitence Squatting Area, was initially charged with murder but accepted responsibility for the lesser offence following the submission of a statement of agreed facts. She was represented by attorney Madan Kissoon, while State Counsel Simran Gajraj, Christopher Belfield, and Geneva Wills appeared for the prosecution.

Before delivering the sentence, Justice Singh reviewed several reports, including probation findings, a statement from the victim’s family, and a detailed assessment of Gibson’s behaviour while on remand. The court also ordered that the time Gibson spent in custody awaiting trial be credited towards her sentence.

The killing occurred on 6 June 2022 at the East Ruimveldt Squatting Area. Davidson was standing in a yard when Gibson and her sister approached her, leading to an argument. During the confrontation, Gibson drew a knife and stabbed Davidson in the chest. Davidson attempted to flee but collapsed and died shortly after. A post-mortem confirmed that the fatal wound pierced her heart.

Investigators said Gibson provided a video-recorded account of the incident and accompanied police to the scene.

Prosecutors highlighted the severity of the attack, noting the use of a deadly weapon and the emotional and financial impact on Davidson’s family. Her two sons, aged 10 and eight, were left without their mother. The State called for a sentence that would serve as a deterrent amid concerns over rising violent crimes.

While in prison, Gibson reportedly participated in rehabilitation programmes, including vocational courses in cosmetology, sewing, culinary arts, and anger management. Prison officials described her conduct as respectful and compliant. Gibson also offered apologies to Davidson’s family in court and expressed remorse for her actions.

Justice Singh initially set a starting sentence of 18 years. Deductions were made for her early guilty plea, positive pre-sentence reports, her expression of remorse, and her age at the time of the incident. An additional four years were added to reflect the impact of Davidson’s death on her family, resulting in a final term of seven years. The Guyana Prison Service will determine the remaining time to be served, accounting for her pre-trial detention.