Brian Linton, who was arrested on an apprehension warrant and spent two nights at the Dominica State Prison, is now a free man after he was granted bail by Magistrate Michael Laudat.
But before that, the Magistrate frowned on the police since Linton, who was on a $75,000.00 bail for a 2022 matter, was diligently appearing in court and complying with his bail conditions of reporting. Linton is facing a charge of alleged “incitement.”
The apprehension warrant was issued by the Magistrate after he missed his April 28, 2025, court date. However, he continued to report to the Marigot Police Station as requested by the court to sign.
Almost one month after the apprehension warrant was issued, it was not executed, although Linton was always at the Marigot Police Station.
It was finally executed when he again went to sign, leaving all, including the Magistrate, baffled.
Linton told the court that after his February 17, 2025, court appearance (where no Magistrate was present), he attempted to get his new court date with no success.
“I went to the court offices to get the date but got nothing and was advised by a lawyer that he will be summoned to court,” he said.
However, he was told by the Magistrate that his duty was to ensure he gets his court date no matter the circumstances.
His surety, Dr. Irvin Pascal, was brought to court to answer why his bail sum should not be forfeited since Linton had failed to appear on his court date.
After listening to Linton, the Magistrate decided that he would not forfeit the bail sum since the matter was poorly handled by the Marigot Police. He also removed the reporting conditions and lowered the bail sum from $75,000.00 to $30,000.00. Dr. Pascal agreed to continue as surety.
“He (Linton) genuinely came to sign as usual, and some level of discretion should have prevailed in the matter,” the Magistrate stated.
“I am removing all reporting conditions. If they want you, they will have to go look for you. I am also reducing the bail amount, your matter is adjourned to September 23, 2025,” he said.
“Thank you very much, Your Honour,” a very relieved Linton replied. David Bruney represented him in the matter.