The 22-year-old Nausori man alleged to have stolen tithe envelopes from the Centenary Methodist Church on Sunday was denied bail yesterday.

Shain Zoher Razak appeared before Magistrate Seini Puamau charged with one count of sacrilege.

He was represented by the Legal Aid Commission.

Police prosecution said the cash, amounting to $2300, was recovered by Police.

He admitted to committing the offence during his Police interview.

It is alleged that the envelopes full of cash were found inside the accused’s pockets when he was spotted by Police officers acting in a suspicious manner.

Upon searching him they found the cash on him.

Magistrate Puamau said the accused was previously convicted for a separate offence, which he pleaded guilty to, and was given a suspended sentence.

He was also produced in court last week for violating COVID-19 related restrictions, which he also pleaded guilty to.

Magistrate Puamau said she was satisfied that the accused was a threat to the community.

His lawyer said he was unaware of his client’s previous cases and had very limited instructions in regards to his bail.

Defence sought more time to file a formal bail application to the court.

The court enquired with defence whether the accused had a history of mental illness to which they confirmed he did not.

He has been remanded until June 24 to check on his Legal Aid application, his bail application and his plea.

The maximum penalty for sacrilege is 14 years imprisonment.

Edited by Ivamere Nataro

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