The Talisay City police will not file criminal charges against Byron Garcia, who brandished an AK-47 rifle during an argument with an American neighbor at the Corona del Mar subdivision last Sept. 19.
Garcia and Wayne Morris can settle the case in a mediation with barangay officials, said SPO1 Joel Rosales of the Talisay City police.
“It’s a criminal case because it falls under ‘other life threats’ but it is one of the lowest form of threats,” Rosales said.
“They need to undergo a mediation with the barangay lupon, barangay captain or the barangay councilors. It will be good for three to four meetings. It’s one of the conditions before the case will reach the prosecutor’s office,” Rosales said.
Garcia, brother of Cebu Gov. Gwen Garcia, and Morris argued over “Slow down” signs the American placed on the road outside his home, which Garcia wanted removed.
Garcia said the American used insulting language and pushed him while Morris said he would file charges for illegal possession of firearm and harassment.
Garcia turned over his AK-47 assault rifle to the PNP Firearms, Explosives Security Guards and Agencies Supervisory Section while Morris said he would explore an amicable settlement.
Supt. Rex Derilo said an administrative case was filed against Garcia last week “for carrying of firearms outside the residence.” This could result in the revocation of Garcia’s gun license because he had no permit to carry firearms./CORRESPONDENT RHEA RUTH V. ROSELL