Simon Jones

Ten people appeared at Supreme Court arraignments yesterday in connection with the December 2 protest outside the House of Assembly.

The group, which included Bermuda Industrial Union president Chris Furbert and the Reverend Nicholas Tweed of the People's Campaign, did not enter pleas before Puisne Judge Carlisle Greaves.

The case was adjourned until Friday, May 26, at 2.30pm. In the meantime, all defendants have been released on bail.

Arnold Smith, 57, and Alafia Toriano Henry, 41, are accused of interfering with ministers' access to the House of Assembly.

Anthony Burgess, 52, Chris Furbert Junior, 38, and David Saltus, 57, are accused of interfering with ministers' access to the House of Assembly and obstructing police.

Meanwhile, Mr Furbert, Mr Tweed, BIU organiser Glen Simmons, Lily May Bulford and Neville Goddard are accused of interfering with ministers' access to the House of Assembly and obstructing police.

All defendants had previously denied all charges at Magistrates' Court.

Scores of supporters dressed in red attended the monthly arraignments session at the Dame Lois Browne-Evans building.

Among those in the packed public gallery were Progressive Labour Party MPs Zane DeSilva, Wayne Furbert and Derrick Burgess. A small crowd had gathered outside the court building yesterday morning.

More defendants are due to appear at the Dame Lois Browne-Evans building tomorrow.

• It is The Royal Gazette's policy not to allow comments on stories regarding criminal court cases. This is to prevent any statements being published that may jeopardise the outcome of that case.