WITH his attorney Nigel Hughes behind him, former army Chief of Staff Rear Admiral Gary Best was on Wednesday hauled before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court for the fatal accident which claimed the life of former national cyclist Jude Bentley.

Best, 61, first appeared before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty and was not required to plead to the charge which read that on February 8, 2020, at Clive Lloyd Drive, Greater Georgetown, he drove motor car PRR 8182 in a dangerous manner which resulted in Bentley’s death.

He was represented by prominent Attorneys-at law Nigel Hughes and James Bond.
Hughes told the court his client is of unimpeachable character, since he served as the Chief of Staff of the GDF and that he was also the recipient of the Medal of Service. Further, Hughes stated that Best would not pose a flight risk.

The prosecutor however objected to bail because of the nature and gravity of the charge. He further told the court that Best was two times above the legal alcohol limit at the time of the accident.

Best was released on $500,000 bail on the condition that he lodge his passport and report to traffic Headquarters, Eve Leary, once per month.

The former chief-of-staff later appeared before Magistrate Clive Nurse, to answer to the charge of driving under the influence.

Particulars of the charge allege that Best had the breath alcohol level of .85 microgrammes. He plead not guilty to the charge and was released on self-bail.

The former army leader will make his next court appearance on March 17, 2020.
Jude Bentley, 41, a businessman and former national cyclist, was killed after he was struck down on the Rupert Craig Highway in the vicinity of the Russian Embassy at approximately 05:00hrs on Saturday morning by a black land cruiser.

Reports indicated that Bentley and Best were heading east along the road. Best reportedly tried to avoid hitting Bentley and struck a utility pole, but still managed to hit the cyclist and dragged him several feet away from the point of impact.

Best was arrested at the scene and two breathalyzer tests were administered. Both tests revealed that Best was way above the legally prescribed alcohol limit.