3 suspects charged with extortion get bail

Three men suspected of being involved in a string of serious crimes—including extortion incidents in the North Central and Central Divisions—were granted bail ranging from $8,000 to up to $400,000 when they appeared in court on Monday.

The three accused men were detained following “weeks of meticulous investigations and round-the-clock surveillance”, the Police Service confirmed in an official statement on the matter.

“They were arrested at their respective homes on August 28, 2024,” the Police Service said, “during a cross-division intelligence-driven operation, orchestrated over a two-day period.”

The TTPS release reported that:

  ●   RICHARD TINTO, 39, of Santa Cruz, was charged with five counts of Demanding Money by Menace, and Possession of Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking. He was granted $400,000 bail with a surety.

  ●   JEFFREY HERNANDEZ, 33, of Maracas, St Joseph, was charged with two counts of Demanding Money by Menace. He was granted $200,000 bail with a surety.

  ●   YADAVE MARAJ, 26, of Valsayn, was charged with Possession of Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking. He was granted $8,000 bail with a surety.

The three men allegedly besieged the North Central and Central business communities for several months.

According to police, the accused were allegedly involved in the extortion of multiple victims, with over $200,000, in extorted funds.

“This operation highlights the unwavering dedication, expertise, and collaborative efforts of our officers, who consistently uphold their duty to protect and serve the public and the various stakeholders in our community,” said Senior Superintendent Richard Smith.

The senior cop also urged those affected by extortion to come forward and report these incidents.  He gave assurances that the police will take all necessary measures to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The police operation involved officers from the North Central Division, under the supervision of Snr Supt Richard Smith, along with Snr Supt Simon, Supt Gyan, and ASP Singh of the Central Division, with Sgt Cielto providing on-the-ground supervision. 

Members of the Central Division Gang Unit, and the Cyber and Social Media Unit provided support to the operation.

The post 3 suspects charged with extortion get bail first appeared on CNC3.