2-4-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) A technician from the United States entered a plea of not guilty at the Sessions Court here on Tuesday, contesting a charge of causing the death of a local man at an entertainment outlet last month.
Thomas Joseph, aged 30, faced an accusation of causing the death of K. Chandra Bose, aged 58, due to injuries sustained by the victim at 12:30 am on March 23.
He was indicted under Section 304(a) of the Penal Code, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years’ imprisonment and may also incur a fine upon conviction.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Anis Hakimah Ibrahim opposed bail, highlighting the gravity of the offense.
“The court must consider the public interest and the accused’s status as a foreign national. Granting bail poses a flight risk and potential non-appearance in future proceedings,” she contended.
Nevertheless, Anis suggested that if bail were to be considered, the prosecution recommended imposing stringent conditions, including surrendering his passport, monthly reporting to the police station, and refraining from influencing prosecution witnesses.
Joseph’s legal representative, Datuk Suraj Singh, requested his client’s release on bail, citing the charge under Section 304 of the Penal Code, which differs from Section 302 relating to murder. He assured compliance with the prosecution’s additional conditions.
Judge Dr. Syahliza Warnoh declined bail and scheduled the case mention for May 28.
Earlier, Bernama reported an incident where a local man allegedly died after being punched by a foreigner during a brawl, causing the victim to fall and suffer a head injury.
