Big bail for Trinidad minister, four other accused: 49 charges read

Charged: Marlene McDonald
Charged: Marlene McDonald

(Trinidad Express) Former Public Administration Minister Marlene McDonald has been granted bail amounting to $2 million.

The charges against her were read in absentia yesterday afternoon since she is at the St Clair Medical Hospital, being treated for an undisclosed ailment.

McDonald’s husband Michael Carew is on $500,000 bail.

Edgar Zephyrine, former head of the National Commission for Self Help was granted $1 million bail.

Contractor Wayne Anthony was granted $100,000 bail and contractor Victor McEachrane was granted $400,000.

All five were charged with offences of conspiracy to defraud the Government, and offences of money laundering.

McDonald was also charged with misbehaviour in public office.  

A total of 49 charges were read by Chief Magistrate Maria Busby Earl Caddle.

The cases were adjourned to September 9.