Noel Maitland, the policeman charged with murdering his girlfriend Donna-Lee Donaldson, was denied bail in the Supreme Court on Thursday.

The ruling was handed down by Justice Vinnette Graham-Allen, who cited witness interference as a factor for her decision in the matter.

“The court is satisfied that there are substantial grounds that if the defendant is released on bail, would fail to surrender to custody, commit an offence while on bail, interfere with witnesses or otherwise obstruct the course of justice. Whether in relation to himself or any other person, [and] no conditions can adequately manage the risk that arises in this particular case,” the judge said.

Maitland was charged with murder and the unlawful burial of a corpse in connection to the disappearance of his 24-year-old girlfriend Donalee Donaldson.

Justice Graham-Allen added that the details of the case laid out by the prosecution showed that Maitland allegedly interfered with potential witnesses and concealed essential evidence.

Graham-Allen said despite Maitland’s defence attorney Christopher Townsend’s argument that his client had no previous convictions and has served the country for nine years as a member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, the court is of the view that “the accused used these years of service to aid him in his conduct and actions in his attempt to conceal, dispose of possible evidence and interference with the witnesses.”

After learning that his bail application was denied, Maitland was told he would be brought back to court on February 9, 2023, for a plea and case management hearing . His trial date is also expected to be set on that date.

READ: Distraught! Donalee’s mother fought back tears after hearing evidence against Maitland

– Candice Haughton