Duo to spend holidays in jail; Magistrate says it’s safer that way

Story Credit NewsCo’s Tahna Weston

Acting Chief Magistrate Dexter Wason took a firm stand in the Magistrate’s Court yesterday, placing two individuals behind bars for the Christmas season, all in the name of public safety.

The decision was taken when Iesha Chiddick and Tony Fontaine faced the judge to answer four charges: two counts of malicious damage and two serious accusations of break-in and entering with larceny.

It is alleged that the pair had brazenly invaded two homes on Factory Road on November 28, making off with stolen items.

One incident saw them forcing their way through a wooden door, causing significant damage to gain entry.

Inside, they were accused of taking a trove of gold and silver jewelry, expensive perfumes, and a staggering $4,000 worth of cash.

Chiddick, a 25-year-old from Gray’s Farm, admitted to the damage of the door but vehemently denied the theft.

In stark contrast, Fontaine stood his ground, rejecting both charges.

The duo also faced further allegations, including the destruction of a wind-up window to infiltrate another home, where they absconded with a metal safe, a laptop, a cell phone, a seemingly random bottle of Coca-Cola, and more than $140 in coins, totaling over $4,500 in stolen goods.

Chiddick confessed to causing damage to the window and stealing, while Fontaine again protested his innocence.

Declaring that their release would only endanger the community during the festive season, Magistrate Wason handed down his decision

Wason said ominously, “I know trouble. The place will be safer for this season if you are not out. You are remanded unless you can secure bail in the High Court.”

Fontaine couldn’t hold back his frustration, accusing authorities of holding him for seven days without justice and enduring violence during his detention.