A taxi driver was yesterday granted his release on $200,000 bail after he denied a charge of sexual grooming.
Daniel James was brought before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, who read him the charge during an in-camera hearing in Georgetown.
It is alleged that James on January 18th intentionally met a child, having communicated with her on at least two occasions in Whatsapp messages, from December 12th, 2017 to January 18th, intending during or after the meeting to commit a relevant offence, being engaging in sexual activity with a minor.
James denied the charge.
According to the police’s case, on January 18th, around 11.45 am, both the defendant and the minor were on the Kingston Seawall in the vicinity of the Marriott Hotel, during school hours. The young girl was observed in the front seat of the defendant’s car, PVV 1214, in a compromising position. A mobile police patrol approached the vehicle and questioned them and then escorted them to the Brickdam Police Station.
James was later granted his release on $200,000 bail and ordered to lodge his passport. He was also ordered not to go within 100 yards of the complainant or make contact with her or her relatives.
The matter was adjourned until April 16th.
