http://www.trinidadexpress.com/news/Gold-medallist-in-court-249367441.html Akeem Marshall gold medallist in the boys under-20 5,000-metre race at last year’s Carifta Games, was granted $20,000 bail when he appeared in court yesterday charged with possession of marijuana for the purpose of trafficking.
Magistrate Ejenny Espinet granted the bail bond to 18-year-old Marshall in the Sangre Grande Magistrates’ Court.
Marshall, who is seeking to defend his title at this year’s Games, was arrested on Saturday in Matelot, within 500 metres of Matelot Primary School.
He was allegedly found with 34 grammes of marijuana in his possession.
Upon his appearance before the magistrate, Marshall pleaded not guilty to the offence.
In his application for bail, defence attorney Fareed Ali informed the magistrate that his client, a member of Toco Titans Sport Club, was the defending 5,000-metre gold medallist and submitted that if bail were to be denied, he would be deprived of the opportunity to properly prepare to defend the title.
Ali said Marshall needed to properly prepare for the Games if he is to successfully represent Trinidad and Tobago at the Games on Easter weekend next month.
After granting the bail bond, Espinet wished Marshall well in defending the title. She later adjourned the matter to April 1.
—Rickie Ramdass
