Appearing before Magistrate Michael Laudat on June 30, 2023, were two recognized figures, Police Constable Flecher Jean from Bioche, and Dublanc businessman, Clits Joseph. The duo separately pleaded not guilty to the charge of unlicensed possession of a firearm, originating from an incident in Salisbury on June 11, 2023, where it is alleged they held a black Taurus 9mm pistol.
Wayne Norde, the defense attorney, presented a robust case for their release on bail. He emphasized the men’s high standing in their communities and their clean records preceding the incident, arguing that they posed no flight risk, particularly due to the absence of any attempt to evade the police or flee the state during the two-week investigation period.
Norde further contended that the time lapse between the alleged crime and charge undermined any rationale for detaining the men for their protection. He particularly highlighted Jean’s tenure at the Coast Guard Base, which brought him in contact with individuals awaiting trial at the prison, suggesting that remanding Jean would not serve justice or public interest.
In his final argument, Norde asserted that the defense had satisfied section 7:2 of the Bail Act, urging the court to grant bail to his clients. Magistrate Laudat concurred, ruling that denying bail was not in the public’s interest.
Bail was accordingly set at $45,000.00 each, under stringent conditions, including surrendering all travel documents, not leaving the state without court permission, twice weekly reporting to the Colihaut Police station, and no re-offending while on bail. The case has been adjourned until October 5, 2023, at the St. Joseph Magistrate Court.
This article is copyright © 2023 DOM767
