MP, driver charged with assault

Member of Parliament for Central Westmoreland, Dwayne Vaz, has denied any wrongdoing after being arrested in connection with an incident at the New Market Oval in Savanna-la-Mar, on Sunday.

Vaz and his driver, Michael Merritt, were yesterday charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm. In a release, Vaz was adamant that he did not assault anyone.

"I categorically state that I was not involved in any assault and that I am innocent of all charges laid against me. I have made myself fully available to assist the police with their investigations," he said.

Reports from the Savanna-la-Mar police are that between 5:30 p.m. and 6 p.m., an altercation developed among patrons at a sporting event being held at the venue. During the dispute, a 52-year-old man was allegedly physically assaulted and sustained injuries. Investigations revealed that the complainant was reportedly involved in a confrontation which escalated into a physical tussle. It is alleged that the accused men assaulted the complainant, during which he sustained injuries to his body. According to Vaz, on the day in question, he attended an event at New Market Oval along with colleagues, during which, he became aware of a commotion and observed two men on the ground in what appeared to be a fight.

"One of the men was my driver and the other the complainant. I, along with other persons present, intervened and successfully separated the men. The complainant, who is known to me, subsequently left the location on a bicycle. My driver sought medical attention and is in possession of a medical report," he said.

Following investigations, Vaz, 44 and Merritt, 48, were arrested and formally charged yesterday. Both men were granted bail in the sum of $80,000 each and are scheduled to appear before the court on March 10.