Bail for pastor accused of flouting Public Health Regulations

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Head of the El Shaddai Deliverance Ministries, Pastor Lincoln Doughty, has been granted $40,000 own bail.

Doughty made a virtual court appearance from the San Fernando Police Station after being charged with gathering in a public place in contravention of the COVID-19 Public Health Regulations.

Doughty, 48, pleaded guilty but he did not agree with the police version of what transpired on Sunday.

As a result, Senior Magistrate Armina Deonarinesingh entered a not guilty plea and granted him bail.

However, he has to report to the police station twice a week.

Doughty was arrested around 11.30 pm at his Iere Village, Princes Town home on Tuesday, during an operation by Southern Division police led by Sr Supt Lucia Winchester.

Doughty and his followers converged on Harris Promenade in San Fernando on Sunday to pray for the nation.

The police, according to a TTPS release, immediately advised them of the State of Emergency and the Public Health Regulations which prohibit gatherings in excess of five people.

During the confrontation, some members of the group openly insulted police officers, the release added.

Doughty was charged by PC Stoude. The matter was transferred to the Third Court and will be heard again on June 16.