No bail for businessman charged for alleged rage-fuelled assault of nurse

Businessman Robert Bell, who is charged for allegedly assaulting a nurse during what is believed to be a case of road rage, was denied bail when he made his first appearance in the Gun Court this morning.

Bell is charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, assault at common law, possessing a firearm with intent to commit a first schedule offence, and possession of a firearm with intent to cause injuries.

In applying for bail, his attorney, Christopher Townsend, argued that he is a good candidate for release from custody, citing his standing in his community.

The attorney also argued that Bell was about to report to the police when he was arrested at his St Andrew home.

The court was also told by the police that Bell is not deemed a threat.

After hearing the submission, Senior Puisne Judge Lorna Shelly Williams refused bail, noting concerns for his safety amid viral videos of the incident.

The matter was stood down for July 9.

The police report that about 7:15 p.m. on Tuesday, May 13, the nurse practitioner was on her way to work when her vehicle was impeded by a vehicle driven by Bell. A dispute reportedly ensued between the two, during which the woman was physically assaulted multiple times.

The following day, Bell was apprehended by the police.

He was subsequently charged after a question-and-answer interview in the presence of his attorney.

The police say they also seized his licensed firearm.

- Tiffany Pryce

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