Beaten intruder appears in Couva court

Anton Thomas, of Railway Road, Couva, pleaded guilty before senior magistrate Cherril- Anne Antoine to unlawfully being on the woman’s premises for the purpose of stealing.

The charge was laid by PC Dexter Duncan. Thomas was seen hog tied in a video which went viral on Facebook on Saturday. He appeared in court with his head bandaged.

Court prosecutor Sgt Wayne Waithe told the court that a name search on the accused man was conducted but police officers were unable to check his criminal record as a result of the “system being down.” Attorney Daryl Giles told Antoine that he was informed by his client of a conviction ten years ago for which he was fined. Giles said Thomas also has a pending matter in the Siparia Magistrates Court.

Thomas, Giles said, complained that when police officers arrived at the scene he informed them that he was beaten, but police officers arrested him and took him to the Couva Police Station where he was charged.

Giles told the court that Thomas has since complained that he is now unable to see with his left eye. Waithe informed the magistrate that the claims are being investigated.

The facts of the case would be read to the court on Thursday when it is expected that Thomas’ criminal record would be produced.

Thomas was granted surety bail in the sum of $30,000 or a cash alternative of $8,000.