A family member of accused Solomon Clarke has withdrawn as his surety, leaving him at risk of being remanded into custody until the conclusion of his case.
Clarke is charged with stealing from the People’s Pub located on Jeremie Street on Saturday, June 29 and Sunday, June 30, 2024. He has pleaded not guilty.
When his case was mentioned, in the First District Court in Castries, on Tuesday the surety made a formal request before the magistrate to be released from the obligation.
“I am here to request if I can pull out as the surety for Solomon Clarke,” she told the court.
She explained that, despite repeated attempts by herself and Clarke’s father to contact him, Clarke had failed to respond and appear for his last hearing. She added that she understood the consequences for him should her request be accepted.
Clarke was not present at Tuesday’s sitting, where the magistrate ordered that the accused must now secure another surety or face the possibility of being remanded until the case is completed.
Clarke’s trial commenced on May 6 this year. During the hearing the virtual complainant, Horace Walters, testified that the establishment had been secured the night before, but was informed of the break-in the following day. He disclosed that the doors at the back of the pub had been broken and the premises appeared ransacked, with papers scattered, drawers pulled out, and the cash register broken. Walters said money was removed from the till, and numerous bottles of alcoholic beverages were missing. Among the stolen items, he listed Hennessy, Johnnie Walker Black, Dewar’s, Black & White, and other expensive drinks.
