A man who was given a job to manage a farm, but allegedly stole 64 goats valued at $600,000 will return to court next year when the matter will continue.

Charged with larceny is Jonathan Samuels, a 24-year-old labourer of Guanboa Vale, St Catherine.

When the case came up for mention in the Spanish Town Resident Magistrate's Court yesterday, Samuels said he was not guilty of the theft.

The court heard that in December 2008 he was employed to manage a farm by the complainant, Limberg Simpson.

When he started, there were reportedly 144 goats under his control. However, it is reported that over time the number of animals dwindled.

The proprietor decided to assess his herd and found more than 60 missing.

He reported the matter to the police and an investigation by Constable Roy Henry resulted in Samuels being charged.

Samuels was not represented when he appeared in court.

He will return to court on February 11, 2011.

- R.T.