National

North Abaco MP Charged With Rape, Assault & Death Threats

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – N. Abaco MP Kirk Cornish was charged with rape, assault, and threats of death. Less than three hours after he was arraigned, he was granted bail.

Published

9 months ago

August 9, 2023

Berthony McDermott

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Another Member of Parliament has found themselves before the Magistrate’s court facing criminal charges. This time from the governing party, North Abaco Member of Parliament Kirk Cornish was charged with rape, assault, and threats of death. Less than three hours after he was arraigned, Cornish was granted bail.

The charges against the North Abaco MP came one day after Cornish resigned as parliamentary secretary in the Office of The Prime Minister. In court today he appeared composed as the charges were read.

North Abaco Member of Parliament Kirk Cornish has been granted $9,500 bail with one or two suretors after being hit with two counts of rape, two counts of assault and one count of threats of death.

As a condition of bail, Justice Gregory Hilton ordered he has no contact with the virtual complainant or anyone connected to her by any means.

A few hours earlier, Cornish who was notably not in handcuffs or shackles, appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate Roberto Reckley, Cornish was not required to enter a plea to any of the charges.

He was also escorted to the magistrates court complex in a Black Ford Police SUV.

Prosecutors allege that between Friday March 25th and April 4th, 2023, Cornish had sexual intercourse with the victim without her consent.

Cornish who was dressed in a grey suit, blue shirt, grey tie, and black shoes is also accused of assaulting and threatening her life.

Prosecutors allege these incidents happened in New Providence, and in Cooper’s Town, Abaco.

The former parliamentary secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister returns to court on October 17th for service of a voluntary bill of indictment.

Outside court, a few of Cornish’s family members gathered. Joining them were less than a dozen party supporters.

Water and Sewerage Corporation Chairman Sylvanus Petty and Bahamas Utility Services and Allied Workers Union President Dwayne Woods were in court to support Cornish.