By Nakasia Logan | November 18, 2024
Assistant Commissioner of Police Calvin Brutus was granted bail in the amount of ten million dollars today after returning to court to face 201 additional charges related to financial misconduct.
These charges stem from allegations of misuse of public funds, amounting to millions.
The charges were grouped by Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty, who set bail at $50,000 per charge.
This grouping of charges is a common practice by magistrates to streamline the administration of justice, especially in cases with similar facts and legal issues. Brutus’ next court appearance is scheduled for January 17, 2025.
In addition to Brutus, his wife, Adonika Aulder, driver Kevin George, and East Bank Demerara businessman Asif Zafarally were ordered to return to court on December 18 to provide statements in their respective matters.
Brutus’ lawyer, Yuborn Allicock, expressed that his client remains firm in his innocence and intends to vigorously defend the charges against him.
Allicock emphasized that Brutus plans to challenge these allegations in full.
Brutus’ initial court appearance took place on October 24, where he faced 30 charges of financial crimes, including obtaining money by false pretenses, misconduct in public office, larceny by a public official, money laundering, and liability of officials.
For these charges, Brutus was granted bail of 6.2 million dollars.
These alleged acts of financial misconduct came to light after a three-month investigation by the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU), during which large sums of money and the purchase of properties worth millions were uncovered.
Brutus had previously filed motions in the High Court to challenge his placement on administrative leave, but he has since withdrawn these motions.