Judge denies alleged car thief’s second request for lower bail
ST JAMES, Jamaica — A man accused of stealing a car he rented had his request for bail to be reduced a second time denied on Tuesday. The judge suggested that he explore selling the property to raise the funds needed.
Alphanso Martin, who had pleaded not guilty to larceny of a motor vehicle in an earlier court appearance, was before the St James Parish Court with his attorney Sherneika Jackson. The presiding judge was Sasha-Marie Smith-Ashley.
During Tuesday’s hearing, Jackson informed the court that her client was unable to take up bail, despite the initial offer being reduced to $250,000 with up to two sureties. The attorney claimed that Martin was having a challenge finding someone to post bail for him.
When given the opportunity to speak, Martin stated that if he was released from custody he would be in a better position to make restitution.
“If I am released now, I will be able to acquire the sum,” he told the judge.
“Can the sum be reduced again to $100,000 with my own surety?” Martin then asked Smith-Ashley.
“I have already reduced the bail, sir,” the judge said, adding that she would not lower the bond.
“If you have certain assets that can be sold, you need to speak with your attorney,” the judge added.
“Can I have one more mention date when he can actually take up his bail and do certain things?” Jackson then asked the judge.
Smith-Ashley subsequently rescheduled a further mention date for March 21 and Martin was taken back to the holding area.
According to court records, about 4:35 pm on June 30, 2021 the complainant — who owns a car rental company in Montego Bay — observed that a 2011 hatchback Honda motor car that was due to return that day was late.
Following checks to ensure that the rental period had not been extended, the complainant made attempts to contact the accused at the phone numbers and address he provided but was unsuccessful. After noticing that the vehicle’s tracker was disabled the complainant reported the matter to the police.
At about 10:54 am on August 19, 2022, the complainant contacted the investigating officer and provided him with information obtained from an anonymous source requesting assistance in seizing the vehicle and detaining the accused. The Gayle Police Station in St Mary was contacted for assistance.
On September 2, the investigating officer was notified that the accused had been arrested and was being held at the Barnett Street lockup in Montego Bay.
A closer examination of the vehicle revealed that the registration disc did not match the paperwork and had been fraudulently modified.