The driver of the lorry that was involved in the accident two weeks ago that claimed the lives of television journalist Akila Jacobs and mini-bus driver Terrence Tappin, appeared in the Christianburg Magistrate’s Court on Thursday to hear four charges.

Burchell Thompson of Amelia’s Ward, Linden appeared before Magistrate Ann Mc Lennon to answer charges in relation to an uninsured motor vehicle, uncertified motor vehicle, maintenance of vehicle and taking and driving a motor vehicle without the owner’s consent.

According to a police release he pleaded guilty to the charges of driving an uninsured motor vehicle and an uncertified motor vehicle but denied the other two charges. He was placed on a total of $175,000 cash bail to return to court on November 4, for sentencing and trial, respectively.

On October 22, Orin Alleyne, the owner of the ill-fated minibus was charged with permitting an unlicensed driver to use his vehicle and also with allowing a breach of insurance. According to a police press release, Tappin was not a licensed minibus driver.

Alleyne of West Ruimveldt Housing Scheme pleaded not guilty when the charges were read to him in the Christianburg Magistrate’s Court and was released on $65, 000 bail to return on November 4.