PHILIPSBURG—Theo Heyliger must be moved back from Bonaire to Sint Maarten as soon as possible, but by Friday, April 5 at the latest. The Joint Court ruled in favour of the United Democrats leader on Wednesday.
The Joint Court has taken into consideration that space is now available in the medical ward of the Pointe Blanche prison. The court agrees with the defence that this is the only place where the health and security of the defendant can be guaranteed.
Heyliger is currently sitting out a 60-day extension of his pre-trial detention in the Larimar case. Heyliger is suspected of accepting bribes of US $300,000 for the purchase of real state - US $260,000 via Caribbean Advice and Consultancy Ltd. and US $40,000 through Advanced Consultech SA – in exchange for awarding government contracts to dredging company Devcon TCI Ltd. and construction company Volker Construction International BV/Volker Stevin Caribbean NV.
Justice Minister Cornelius de Weever explained to The Daily Herald the Pointe Blanche Prison can only house 70 prisoners in its current condition. At present it is at full capacity. This was based on checks of the prison by justice officials.
De Weever also explained the medical ward has space for five. The last time he received an update there were four beds occupied. This situation could change if another prisoner gets ill.
The Prosecutor’s Office has also conducted site inspections and are aware of the capacity status, said De Weever.
