The trial of a man who was allegedly rescued by Minister without Portfolio James Robertson begins in the Gun Court today.

An early trial date was set by Supreme Court judge Bryan Sykes Monday for Rameish Simpson of White Horses, St Thomas, following an application made by defence lawyer Charles Ganga Singh.

Denied bail applications

Simpson has been in custody since he was arrested and charged in January. Two bail applications were made, but he was denied bail. Simpson is facing charges of shooting with intent and illegal possession of firearm.

It has been alleged that Simpson fired at the police on January 3. However, there are reports that Simpson was also shot and injured during the incident and Robertson took him from St Thomas to the Kingston Public Hospital.

Robertson was subsequently served with summonses for obstructing the police and using abusive and calumnious language.