Men accused of kidnapping Schneider gets $200,000 bail

The two men, charged with kidnapping former national chess player Damien Schneider, were yesterday granted bail in the sum of $200,000 each by Port-of-Spain Magistrate Ejenny Espinet.

Former URP foreman Roger Gillard, 36, and Carlos Richardson, both of Duncan Street, Port-of-Spain, were arrested on Sunday and charged by Cpl Allison Jones of the Belmont CID for the July 13 kidnapping. Gillard is also charged with stealing an RBTT debit card from Schneider. Schneider was reportedly abducted from his Sandhurst Street, Belmont home. “I understand that they find Schneider dead so I know that you might not be able to grant me bail but what I really want is that you allow me to prove my innocence because I have a family and I would like you to start the matter now,” said Gillard.

Defence attorney representing Gillard, Wayne Sturge, was not present but was represented by Mario Merrit. When asked if there was any objection to bail, Police prosecutor Claudette Bynoe submitted that based on the seriousness of the offence and the fact that the matter was still under investigation, the men should not be granted bail. Espinet however pointed out that the grounds for the objection were insufficient. She then granted bail, to be approved by the Clerk of the Peace. Gillard continued, “This thing putting me and my family through a lot of stress.” He went on to indicate that he was willing to proceed with the matter even if his attorney is absent. The matter was adjourned to July 29.  Schneider’s charred body was found on Tuesday morning however charges have not been laid for the murder.