They appeared before Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Christianburg Magistrate’s Court. McLennan denied bail to both accused.
In the case of Clarke, bail was denied on the grounds that the virtual complainant was hospitalised for four days for injuries that were sustained, the prevalence and seriousness of the offence, and the likelihood that he might tamper with the complainant. Vanhersal, meanwhile, was denied bail since the court felt that he was likely to tamper with the witness. The prevalence of the offence and the age of the complainant were also cited as reasons for the refusal.
Clarke is to return to court on February 9, while Vanhersal is to return on February 10.
