ST JAMES, Jamaica — Fear and caution have kept a former police officer behind bars, even after bail was granted, following a chaotic incident at a Montego Bay pharmacy.

Michael Mendez, once an officer with the Jamaica Constabulary Force, is facing charges of malicious destruction of property after an October 9, 2025, incident at Fontana Pharmacy in Fairview.

He is represented by attorney Jermaine Campbell.

Mendez appeared in St James Parish Court on Wednesday before Judge Natiesha Fairclough-Hylton.

Although bail had previously been approved, the former officer remains in custody because his mother and sister, who were present in court, said they were too afraid to post it.

They told the court that Mendez, who has been diagnosed with a mental disorder, is usually “good” when taking his medication, but exhibits abnormal behaviour when he refuses it, which heightens their concern.

Their fears were compounded by a previous case in which Mendez allegedly fled after being granted bail. That matter, involving a tenant’s claim of breach of quiet enjoyment, is still before the court.

Judge Fairclough-Hylton remanded Mendez in custody until March 4, citing the need for an updated psychiatric evaluation before the case can proceed.

The current charge stems from the pharmacy incident, during which Mendez allegedly demanded to speak to the manager before beginning to pull items from the shelves, damaging multiple products in the process.

The total value of the destruction is yet to be determined.