A 61-year-old security supervisor at the Castries Craft Market was granted bail on Tuesday after appearing in the First District Court on charges of theft and property damage.
Winston Charles, of Chausee Road, Castries, and employed by the Castries City Council, faces two summary charges of property damage and one count of theft.
The first incident occurred on Sunday, April 13, when market vendors reported the theft of a bottle of honey valued at $120 and about $200 worth of drinks from a cooler. Days later, in the early hours of Thursday, April 17, three padlocks, each valued at $20, were found damaged inside the market. Then, on Saturday, April 19, around 11:53 p.m., authorities discovered several surveillance cameras had been tampered with and damaged.
After reviewing footage, investigators said Charles was clearly identified in all three incidents, leading to his arrest. The prosecutor informed the court that Charles had no prior convictions.
Though the prosecution did not oppose bail, they requested strict conditions to prevent interference with the investigation or the alleged crime scene. Magistrate Trotman granted bail at $500 per charge, totalling $1 500, payable in cash or by a suitable surety.
Bail conditions include:
- Reporting weekly to the Central Police Station every Friday between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.
- Staying at least 100 yards away from the Castries Craft Market.
- Surrendering all travel documents to the court.
- Obtaining court permission before leaving the country.
During proceedings, Charles told the court, “My boss eh pay me yet, I can pay $1 000, I have pay outstanding. I can pay it when I get it, Your Honour.”
Magistrate Trotman responded firmly, “You cannot post bail for yourself, Sir.”
The case has been adjourned to June 5.
