Squash pleads not guilty to gun charges in the U.S

Dancehall artiste Squash pleaded not guilty to firearm charges when he appeared in court on Wednesday in the United States.

The 33-year-old entertainer is facing charges of illegal possession of a modified firearm and carrying a concealed weapon without a permit.

He entered the written plea before Thursday's arraignment hearing.

The deejay also requested a jury trial.

He is to reappear in court on April 7 for a trial date to be set by the judge.

Squash, whose real name is Andre Whittaker, and his co-accused Zidanne George Prescott, were arrested on February 24 by police during a traffic stop in Miami, Florida.

The lawmen reportedly noticed Whittaker pulling something from his waistband and putting it in the glove compartment.

Upon searching the vehicle a Glock 19 pistol modified with an invisi-switch plate to make the gun fire automatically was reportedly seized. A Glock 35 .40 caliber pistol with an extended magazine was found under the driver's seat, along with three loaded magazines.

The entertainer, who is reportedly illegally staying in the country was soon transferred to the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), before being transferred to the Federal Detention Center, FDC, in Miami.

- Antwaine Campbell

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