Daniel Kinston Whippy, the managing director of Carpenters Fiji Limited, has entered a not guilty plea in response to allegations brought against him by the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). During a bail variation hearing held at the Suva Magistrate’s Court, Whippy was charged with counseling alterations to the findings of a Fire Investigation Report related to an incident at the Morris Hedstrom warehouse in Walu Bay on April 8, 2018, allegedly for personal gain.
In court, FICAC lawyer Sera Fatafehi outlined four conditions for Whippy’s bail to permit his travel. These conditions included maintaining a $50,000 cash bail, ensuring his two sureties are bonded on a $20,000 non-cash bail bond each, the release of his passport by the end of the day, and the continuation of a stop departure order until the outcome of a visa application is determined. FICAC expressed concerns that Whippy might abscond, emphasizing the need to increase both his and his sureties’ financial commitments to the court to secure their presence during the proceedings.
Whippy’s defense attorney Stephen Stanton stated that his client’s wife would accompany him during travel, and they have alternative plans involving his son should any disputes arise over travel restrictions. FICAC confirmed that Whippy made no admissions during his caution interview and both parties agreed that the case would be tried in the Magistrate’s Court. Whippy’s second lawyer, Suruj Sharma, mentioned that an online visa application has been filed, but an in-person interview is necessary, which requires his passport and could take around three weeks for processing by the United States Embassy.
The court has scheduled a follow-up hearing for November 11, at which point the stop departure order will be discussed.
This situation highlights the rigorous checks in legal proceedings involving high-profile individuals, reflecting the integrity of the judicial system in addressing allegations of corruption. The upcoming court date offers an opportunity for all parties to clarify the legal issues at hand in pursuit of justice.
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