Bail was set at $20,000 for a labourer, who is accused of committing arson, when he appeared at court for his arraignment on May 2, 2023.

Alvern Baptiste, 51, of Diamond, appeared at the Serious Offences Court before Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne.

He was not required to plea to the indictable charge that on April 29, at Diamond, he destroyed by fire one 24 x 30 ft concrete apartment valued at $15,000, the property of Joycelyn Barbour of Diamond.

The magistrate granted bail in the sum of $20,000. with one surety. However, no one showed up at court to sign surety for the defendant, he therefore was remanded until surety is signed for him.

Baptiste was ordered to have no contact with the virtual complainant, and he is to report at the Stubbs Police Station every Friday between 6:00 a.m – 6:00 p.m.

Additionally, he was ordered to surrender all travel documents, and stop notices were ordered to be placed at all ports of entry and exit.

The matter is adjourned to July, 3, for the start of a Preliminary Inquiry.