Shaquawn Alleyne, called “Iswe,” the man accused of murdering his girlfriend, Shonette Dover, has admitted to the killing, bringing the long-running case closer to resolution.
Alleyne appeared before Justice Sandil Kissoon at the Demerara High Court on Tuesday, where he pleaded guilty to murder, an offence contrary to common law.
The prosecution presented the indictment, which stated that Alleyne killed Dover in March 2021. When asked how he wished to plead, he responded, “Guilty.”
The court confirmed that Alleyne had signed a written statement outlining the facts of the case and acknowledged that he understood the implications of his plea.
Following the admission of guilt, the judge ordered several reports to assist in sentencing, including a probation report on Alleyne’s background, due by June 16, 2026. A psychiatric evaluation was also ordered, with the same deadline.
The prosecution must also submit aggravating factors, along with any victim impact statements from Dover’s family or loved ones, by June 16. Alleyne’s attorneys are expected to present mitigating factors for the court’s consideration.
The Guyana Prison Service has been instructed to provide a report on Alleyne’s conduct while on remand.
Sentencing has been scheduled for June 17, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., after all reports are filed.
Alleyne was arrested on January 19, 2024, at Moleson Creek, Corentyne, Berbice, in connection with the murder of Dover, which occurred between April 3 and April 30, 2021, at Canvas City, Wismar, Linden. Investigators said Dover, 20, was fatally shot and later buried in a shallow grave in Alleyne’s backyard.
