SSL Fraudster Jean-Ann Panton Denied Bail
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Following her arrest and charge for the theft of billions of dollars from client accounts at Stocks and Securities Limited (SSL), former SSL wealth adviser Jean-Ann Panton was denied bail on Friday in the Supreme Court.
Panton was recently charged with violating the Larceny Act, the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA), the Forgery Act, and the Cyber Crimes Act for allegedly stealing US$10 million and J$90 million from multiple client investment accounts. The former wealth adviser confessed to the theft and revealed that she had defrauded almost 40 customers of SSL.
After her confession, Panton was later interviewed, and two premises connected to her were searched in the presence of her and her attorney.
According to the Jamaica Observer, during Panton’s previous hearing on February 17, an application for bail on medical grounds was made by her attorney. But the presiding judge found the information that was presented lacking.
During today’s hearing, Panton’s lawyer, Tamika Harris, disclosed to the court that her client suffered from diabetes, hypertension, and chronic lumbar, hip and knee pain. Harris presented an affidavit and displayed newspaper clippings that detailed Panton’s illness and two medical reports, which included a report from the accused’s orthopaedic surgeon. Harris also informed the judge that Panton’s medical reports indicated a risk for infection as well as a need for physiotherapy.
Justice Lorna Shelly Williams denied Panton’s bail as well as her defence team’s request for the next court hearing to be conducted via Zoom. However, Justice Williams informed Panton’s representatives that another bail application could be made if they had any additional information to present.
Panton has been remanded until her next appearance in court on April 19. Her plea and case management hearing is scheduled for June 15.
