Man allegedly beaten for practising obeah

A St James man who allegedly beat another man with a board after accusing him of practising obeah will stand trial in the St James Parish Court on April 6.

Ezra Parker, of a St John address in the parish, pleaded not guilty to the charge of assault occasioning bodily harm when he appeared in court recently.

Allegations are that on March 14, Parker approached the complainant and accused him of working obeah. Following this, Parker used a board to hit the man on his shoulder and ear, resulting in bruising and swelling.

When Parker appeared in court, he told Parish Judge Sandria Wong-Small that he did not have a lawyer and would be representing himself.

"The matter is ready for trial. Are you sure you want to represent yourself?" Wong-Small asked Parker.

"Sure, since I have nothing to hide. I've come to court already, and this man is telling lies on me," Parker replied, pointing to the complainant.

"I advise you to control yourself down there," Wong-Small cautioned the defendant.

Parker's bail was subsequently extended until April 6, when he will stand trial.

The court was also told that the medical certificate was not ready.