THE man accused of shooting a police corporal during an operation in Willowdene, Spanish Town, St Catherine, last month is to reappear in court on May 9.

At that time the matter is expected to be transferred to the Home Circuit Court on King Street in downtown Kingston.

Yesterday, when the matter was called up in the St Catherine Parish Court, the accused, James Shakespeare, was denied bail following an application by his attorney Kimani Brydson.

It is alleged that on March 24, Shakespeare, who is charged with assault at common law, illegal possession of firearm, shooting with intent and wounding with intent, pulled a firearm on his nephew who summoned the police. It is reported that during a confrontation with the police, Shakespeare was shot and a policeman also shot and injured. Both were taken to hospital for treatment. A 9mm pistol and ten 9mm cartridges were seized after the incident, police said.

Bail was denied on the basis that both the accused and the complainant reside at the same address. The judge, while expressing concern that the accused was likely to interfere with the witness, based on the seriousness of the offence, might not turn up for trial. The judge ordered that he receive the appropriate medical treatment whilst in custody.

The Jamaica Observer was told recently that the injured corporal was recuperating.

— Racquel Porter