Accused man claims police brutality

A 50-YEAR-OLD Point Fortin man charged with possession of arms, ammunition and cocaine, appeared in court yesterday sporting a “black eye,” claiming he was beaten while in custody.

Glen Rampersad spent the weekend in custody following his arrest on Saturday by police on London Street, Point Fortin, allegedly with a Smith and Wesson revolver, six bullets and 11 grammes of cocaine in his possession. Rampersad’s attorney Nicky Dindial complained to Magistrate Maria Busby Earl-Caddle that Rampersad was beaten and as a result his eye became discoloured and swollen. Dindial also said the accused was having head and chest pains. 

The police reportedly took Rampersad for medical attention at Point Fortin Area Hospital on Saturday, and returned with him to the hospital yesterday afternoon. Rampersad pleaded not guilty to possession of a firearm, possession of ammunition, possession of cocaine, possession of an apparatus and resisting arrest. Police prosecutor Cpl Geoffrey objected to bail on the grounds that the accused has a similar matter pending in the High Court. Magistrate Busby Earle Caddle remanded Rampersad in custody to tomorrow and ordered a tracing of his criminal records.