50-Y-0 North Sophia resident granted bail on assault charge

The defendant of Lot 77 ‘D’ Field North Sophia, Greater Georgetown, pleaded not guilty to both charges before Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry. It is alleged thaton June 7 at North Sophia, he unlawfully assaulted Felicity Benjamin, causing actual bodily harm.

It is also alleged that on May 19 at North Sophia, he behaved in a manner to provoke the peace of Benjamin. According to Police Prosecutor, Bharat Mangru, on the day in question around 17:45 hrs, Dash approached Benjamin and dealt her several lashes, following which she received injuries.

The court also heard that he relieved the victim of her jewellery and cash, local and foreign, together valued $65,000. But the accused told the Court a different story, relating that on the day in question, he and his son was on the road, when he saw Benjamin.

According to the accused, Benjamin hit him after which he pushed her. Meanwhile, the police prosecutor opposed bail on the grounds that Dash was on bail for another offence, when this incident allegedly occurred.

The Prosecutor argued that if granted bail, Dash may tamper with the virtual complainant. However, the prosecution’s objection was overruled by the Chief Magistrate and Dash was placed on $40,000 bail. The case was transferred before City Magistrate Annette Singh for July 27.