Sophia man charged with battering, threatening wife

A Sophia man was yesterday released on bail after denying charges that he beat his common-law wife and threatened to kill her.

It is alleged that Albert Johnson, 28, of 382 ‘B’ Field, Sophia, on January 29, at his residence, threatened and assaulted his wife, Candace Daniels.

Johnson, a father of two, pleaded not guilty to both charges after they were read to him by Magistrate Zamilla Ally-Seepaul at the Better Hope Community Centre. According to the prosecution, on the day in question, Johnson and Daniels had an argument over money at their home. As a result, Johnson allegedly dealt his wife a blow, verbally abused her and threatened to kill her, the prosecutor added. However, the prosecution had no objections to bail but asked that Johnson be placed on a bond to keep the peace since he and the virtual complainant reside together.

Johnson’s attorney, Motilall Singh, told the court that Daniels did not wish to pursue the matter and preferred that they go to counselling for the sake of their children. After hearing the submissions, Magistrate Ally-Seepaul granted Johnson $20,000 bail on each charge and she also placed him on a bond to keep the peace.

Johnson is expected to make another court appearance on March 16, when a probation report is to be given to the court.