Brazilian and Azorean plead not guilty
A Brazilian national has been charged with transmitting a false image, contrary to the Electronic Communications Act.
Under the guidance of the Director of Public Prosecutions, charges were approved against Victor Bahia.
It is understood that the charges are in connection with the image of a rattlesnake that was reportedly spotted in Southampton two months ago.
Appearing in Magistrates’ Court this morning, Mr. Bahia denied sharing false information.
Another man, an Azorean national, Alvaro Cro, was charged with making a declaration to police on July 30th that was false. He, too, pleaded not guilty.
When the charges were read, both men stood up together … Mr. Bahia in the custody dock, and Mr. Cro in the public gallery.
It is understood both men are guest workers, and a translator was needed to communicate the charges to the defendants.
Earlier today, a statement on behalf of the Director of Public Prosecutions read:
“The criminal proceedings against Victor Bahia concern the role alleged to have been played by him in the distribution of an image which ultimately came to be the subject of great national concern.”
The DPP acknowledged the “thorough investigation” carried out by the Bermuda Police Service towards identifying the appropriate person to be charged, adding: “The matter is now before the court, and all parties await judicial resolution of the charges.”
Today’s statement continued: “Members of the public are urged to be responsible when sharing information with each other, and the Department of Public Prosecutions … stands ready to prosecute allegations of mischievous misuse of electronic communications where it is in the public interest to do so.”
The case was adjourned by Magistrate Tyrone Chin until September 21.
