Cop on drunk driving charge after fatal Mandela Ave accident
Ryan Persaud, the police constable who was involved in the accident that left a motorcyclist dead last Saturday night, was yesterday released on $25,000 bail after being charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol.
The charge alleged that 23-yearold Persaud on September 1st, at Mandela Avenue, drove motor vehicle PVV 4652 while his breath alcohol level exceeded the legal limit.
Persaud denied the allegation. His attorney, Eusi Anderson, in an application for reasonable bail, told the court that his client was still a serving member of the Guyana Police Force attached to the Impact base and was not a flight risk. He added that he was still under investigation as a result of the accident but noted that Persaud has been cooperating.
The prosecutor made no objections to bail being granted but asked that Persaud lodge his passport.
Magistrate Marissa Mittelholzer subsequently granted the constable his release on $25,000 bail and adjourned the matter until October 11th.
The police constable was driving a force minibus, PVV 4652, when he collided with motorcyclist Akemo Anthony. A statement from the police force said the constable was proceeding east along the northern carriageway on Mandela Avenue, while Anthony, 23, was proceeding in the opposite direction on motorcycle CJ511. Anthony suddenly turned north into the path of the minibus in an attempt to cross into Back Circle Street. However, because of the short distance, the bus collided with the motorcycle, police added.