By LAMECH JOHNSON
Tribune Staff Reporter
ljohnson@tribunemedia.net
A CORRECTIONS Officer awaiting trial in Magistrates Court on drug possession charges was granted bail yesterday by a Supreme Court judge.
Irvin Bodie Jr, 45, and his lawyer Elsworth Johnson appeared before Justice Bernard Turner seeking a bond for Bodie, who is accused of possessing a quantity of marijuana on March 13.
Mr Johnson had argued that Bodie Jr was a fitting candidate for bail, as he had no previous convictions and strong community ties.
However, Crown prosecutor Eucal Bonaby objected to the grant of bail noting the previous professional capacity of the accused and the circumstances in which the case was formed. The Tribune understands Bodie Jr has been suspended due to the charges.
Justice Turner, however, ruled that this was not sufficient reason to have the officer remain in prison until the start of his trial on May 31. The judge set bail at $12,000.
Last Wednesday, Bodie Jr and 52-year-old Enid Rolle appeared before Magistrate Andrew Forbes arraigned on conspiracy to possess and possession of dangerous drugs with intent to supply.
It was alleged that both plotted and were in possession of seven ounces of marijuana on Sunday, March 13. While both pleaded not guilty to the conspiracy, Rolle pleaded guilty to the latter allegation.
Rolle was formally convicted of the offence and was told that she could pay a $1,500 fine or spend six months in prison.
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