Michael Misick Formally Charged With Conspiracy to Bribe

Above: Supreme Court in Grand Turk

By the Caribbean Journal staff

Former Turks and Caicos Islands Premier Michael Misick was formally charged with conspiracy to bribe on Tuesday following his arrival in Grand Turk.

Misick, who was extradited from Brazil, initially had his bail application rejected by the Magistrate. His application was later accepted on appeal by the Turks and Caicos Supreme Court in the afternoon.

Misick was unable to meet the bail conditions on Tuesday evening and has been remanded in custody in Her Majesty’s Prison in Grand Turk, according to the Governor’s office.

If Misick can meet the conditions before Monday, Jan. 13, the former Premier could be released earlier, a spokesperson for the Governor’s office said in a statement.

Another 11 defendants face plea and direction hearings in the TCI Supreme Court this week on related charges, all of whom will face trial on July 7, 2014.

Developer Richard Michael Padgett, another defendant, has already pleaded guilty to bribery and conspiracy to pervert the course of justice. He will be sentenced on March 31.

“In due course an application will be made to add his case to the Information against  his co-accused, who are scheduled to face trial in the Supreme Court from 7 July 2014,” the Governor’s office said.

In a statement released following Misick’s return, Premier Dr Rufus Ewing said he welcomed the return of Misick to the island.

“I welcome the return of Premier Misick to the Turks and Caicos Islands, the home that he loves, and to his family and friends, who have all been praying for his safe return,” he said. “Premier Misick will be processed and I trust that through the will of God, fairness and justice will prevail and the Rule of Law will be executed in a manner that is fair, respectful and transparent as it upholds his basic Human Rights.”