Former PNP lawmaker granted J$300,000 bail amid incest charges

A former Jamaican Member of Parliament facing charges of incest was granted bail in the sum of J$300,000 during an appearance in the Westmoreland Parish Court on Thursday.

The former lawmaker, who represented the People’s National Party, was taken into custody on Monday following allegations involving his teenage daughter. As part of his bail conditions, the accused is required to report to the Frome Police Station every Saturday and has been ordered to maintain no contact with the complainant. Notably, the court did not impose any travel restrictions on the individual at this time.

The legal proceedings stem from a reported incident on January 23 that allegedly occurred while the man was assisting the child with a passport application process.

Authorities state that the former MP took the teenager to verify photographs before allegedly transporting her to his residence, where the assault is said to have taken place. Following an investigation, law enforcement conducted an operation at the man’s home, leading to his arrest.

The identity of the accused is being withheld by officials to ensure the protection of the minor’s identity.

In a statement issued April 6, the People’s National Party said it had noted reports that a former Member of Parliament had been charged with a serious sexual offence.

“Our thoughts are first and foremost with the young victim and all those affected by this deeply distressing case. The protection of children and all vulnerable persons must always be our absolute priority.” The party said that upon learning of the charges, it acted without delay.

“Upon learning of the charges, the Party has acted without delay. The accused’s membership in the People’s National Party has been referred to the appropriate internal processes for immediate action. We respect that the matter is now a legal one, and as such, we will limit our comments. We trust that the judicial process will be fair, thorough, and expedient.”

The party added that it remains committed to the highest standards of conduct and to policies that actively protect and support victims of abuse.

“There is no place in our Party or our society for anyone who would commit such crimes,” the party said.