Alleged drug kingpin 'el chapo' granted bail
Jordan Azzopardi was accused of setting two cars on fire in Marsascala
Alleged drug kingpin Jordan Azzopardi was granted bail on Thursday morning.
Azzopardi, known as ‘El Chapo’, was arraigned in March after he was accused of setting two cars on fire in Marsaskala.
He was also charged with unlicensed possession of a loaded firearm, drug possession (cocaine and cannabis), recidivism and money laundering. He pleaded not guilty.
Earlier this week, Azzopardi filed a bail application.
Defence lawyers Franco Debono and Charles Mercieca argued that at this stage, there were no grounds at law to keep denying the man bail. Moreover, their client has tried to bring his life on track since his previous convictions.
Probation officer Joanna Farrugia testified in a sitting on Wednesday, telling the court that Azzopardi always attended to his appointments and kept contact with her.
Farrugia explained that Azzopardi tested positive for cannabis; however, he had been prescribed medical cannabis. Over the past years, Azzopardi tested positive for cocaine in 2023.
She described Azzopardi as a respectful person who sought her advice when faced with a difficulty. She added that the man is employed with his father.
The man’s father also testified in the proceedings, telling the court that if given bail Azzopardi could reside with him in Swieqi and could continue working for him. He also offered to act as a guarantor.
The prosecution objected, arguing that the man was not trustworthy and he had already been found guilty of similar offences. It also argued that the man’s criminal record alone was sufficient not to grant the man bail.
The court upheld the request and granted Azzopardi bail against a €10,000 deposit and a €40,000 personal guarantee.
He was ordered to sign the bail book twice a day and reside with his father.
Magistrate Ann Marie Thake presided over the court.
Lawyers Joseph Camilleri Azarov and Daniel Tabone prosecuted, assisted by police inspector Shaun Pawney.
Lawyers Franco Debono, Marion Camilleri and Charles Mercieca were defence counsel to Azzopardi.