St John man denies drug charges

A 59-year-old fisherman is now on remand at Dodds on several drug charges.

Anthyne Douglas Jones, of Colleton, St John appeared before Chief Magistrate Ian Weekes over the weekend charged with possession, possession with intent to supply and having a trafficable quantity of cannabis in his possession on May 1.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the charges before the District ‘A’ Magistrates’ Court in the presence of his attorney-at-law Michael Lashley, Q.C.

Sergeant Theodore McClean objected to his bail based on the nature and seriousness of the charges and because the accused had been before the court just a few weeks ago on similar offences. The prosecutor argued that there was a likelihood that Jones would re-offend if given bail.

In his application Queen’s Counsel Lashley argued that the charges against his client were at the “lower end” as the drugs he is alleged of having had an estimated street value on $2,900. He went on to say that in the magistrates’ court accused persons had been granted bail on charges involving a much greater volume of drugs.

The defence attorney also submitted that the accused lived with his elderly mother who he takes care of and asked that the court exercised its discretion in his favour and grant bail.

However the chief magistrate said Jones had been given an opportunity just a few weeks ago when he appeared and was back before the court “so soon”.

He said: “I am not exercising my discretion in his favour.”

Magistrate Weekes then remanded the accused to Dodds until May 29.