St Vincent teen pleads not guilty, granted bail in Cuban health professionals assault case
A 19-year-old in St Vincent and the Grenadines has been granted bail of EC$5,000 (equivalent to US$0.37 cents) and is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday, after pleading not guilty to injuring two Cuban healthcare professionals.
Magistrate Bertie Pompey presided over the hearing and subsequently transferred the case to the Serious Offences Court.
Teen pleads not guilty, granted bail
Jace Baptiste, who discontinued his education in Form 1, denied allegations of assaulting Janet Gameo Fableon, resulting in actual bodily harm. He also pleaded not guilty to possessing an offensive weapon and throwing objects at Fableon.
A fourth charge was laid indictably, accusing Baptiste of unlawfully and maliciously inflicting grievous bodily harm on Daima Ves Aeosta on July 11.
Although the prosecution did not object to bail, they requested a substantial amount of money to be set as bail.
More on the attack on Cuban healthcare professionals
St Vincent Prime Minister saddened by attack on Cuban doctor
The St Vincent and the Grenadines-Cuba Friendship Association issued a statement over the weekend expressing regret over the recent attacks on Cuban Medical Brigade members, who have been diligently providing vital healthcare services to the local population.
The association affirmed its solidarity with all Cubans residing in the region and reiterated its warm welcome and appreciation for their presence among them.
Bernard Hamilton, the coordinator of the association, conveyed the group's hope for the apprehension of the culprits involved in these crimes.
Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of bringing to justice anyone who engages in violent behavior that disrupts the peaceful and friendly atmosphere for which their nation is renowned.
Earlier this month, Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves announced that the government would enhance security measures for Cuban medical professionals in St Vincent and the Grenadines in the aftermath of the attack on healthcare workers.
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