A West Ruimveldt man was on Thursday refused bail by a city court after it was told that he tried to rob another man using a screwdriver.
David Bernard, 28, appeared before Magistrate Faith McGusty, who read to him a charge stating that on January 30, at Kingston, he attempted to commit a felony, being armed robbery, by attempting to rob Leon Blackman. Bernard pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Prosecutor Seon Blackman objected to bail on the basis that the offence is a serious one and attracts a similarly severe penalty.
No details were presented by the prosecution, but it was the complainant, Blackman, who told the court that he had been on his way to work when he was approached by Bernard and an accomplice, who rode toward him. The man related that he began walking faster as he became fearful of being robbed.
They passed by but turned back, and when the two approached again, they pulled out screwdrivers and demanded he hand over money. Blackman said that he was able to run away and alert police, who were on patrol at the time. He said the accused was later seen riding along the seawall alone and a screwdriver was recovered on his person.
Bernard was allowed to speak after the charge was read, and although he admitted to being on the seawall that night, he denied trying to rob Blackman. He was remanded to prison until February 17.
