Former Minister of Public Service under the People’s Progressive Party administration, Jennifer Westford appeared before Magistrate, Judy Latchman today, charged with 24 counts of fraud involving some $639M.

She was charged jointly with her former Chief Personnel Officer, Margaret Cummings. They both pleaded not guilty to the charges. Prosecutor, Bharat Mangru objected to bail, citing the possibility of witness tampering and the likelihood that they would not return to court.

However, the women were granted bail by Magistrate Latchman in the sum of $200,000 for each count, which brings it to a total of $4.8M.

During audits at the Ministry of Public Service, which Westford once headed under the PPP Administration, it was found that she received several million dollars from the then Office of the President, which were to be used for regional projects.

However, the projects were never carried out although the money was withdrawn. Both Wesford and Cummings were previously charged with illegally transferring several State owned vehicles to themselves and associates.