Man released on bail after cocaine find

A 29-year-old man from Luqa was this morning granted bail after pleading not guilty to aggravated possession of cocaine, and simple possession of cannabis.

Prosecuting inspector Herman Mula told the court that police searched the accused’s residence in Luqa, his vehicles and a garage. The search yielded 30 grams of cocaine, two grams of cannabis grass, empty sachets, scales, and other drug paraphernalia.

Standing in court this morning, the prosecution told the court that this denoted that the drugs were not for his personal use, a claim disputed by defence lawyer Stephen Tonna Lowell who insisted that the drugs were for his client’s personal use.

Moreover, the lawyer claimed that the accused, Renald Attard of Luqa, should not have been arrested but conversely should have been summoned to court by contravention.

The court also heard how the accused was placed under a probation order for his role in a fight and despite the fact that his criminal record is not voluminous, the prosecution described Attard’s convictions as serious.

In submissions for bail, inspector Mula told the court that bail should be withheld due to the serious nature of the crime. On its part, the defence claimed that the accused will not influence court proceedings, and that there is no fear of absconding.

Presiding Magistrate Audrey Demicoli upheld the defence’s plea and granted Renald Attard bail against a deposit of €500, and a personal guarantee of €2,000.

Inspector Herman Mula prosecuted, while Lawyer Stephen Tonna Lowell was defence counsel.