A 25-year-old Vernons resident was remanded to His Majesty’s Prison after attempting to leave Antigua, using an undisclosed US passport, while he was on bail.
Beresford Francis, a practice manager at a veterinary clinic was initially charged with breaking and entering and larceny at a Cedar Hill residence on October 3, 2024.
He was granted bail on December 5 with specific conditions, which included surrendering his travel documents, adhering to a travel ban, and reporting to Parham Police Station three times weekly.
During his bail hearing, Francis declared his Antigua and Barbuda passport, which was surrendered to the court, but he failed to declare possession of a US passport.
Subsequently, he did not comply with his reporting obligations to the Parham Police Station.
On Monday, at approximately 9:15pm, Francis attempted to board a flight to London at VC Bird International Airport using his US passport. Law enforcement officials intercepted him before his scheduled 11:30pm departure.
Francis appeared in court on Tuesday, where his bail was immediately revoked and he was remanded to His Majesty’s Prison (HMP).
Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel specifically commended Constable Matthew (No 72), the police force, and the Immigration Department for their swift action in apprehending the accused.
The court emphasized the significance of inter-agency cooperation in ensuring that defendants comply with judicial processes.
Francis will remain in custody at HMP until his next court appearance.
