A policeman charged with possession of ganja after he was held at the Spanish Town lock-up with the drug recently, was granted $50,000 in court yesterday.

He is Andrew Eldermire of the Spanish Town Police Station in St Catherine.

Attorney-at-law Floyd Green directed by Wentworth Charles and Associates, in applying for bail, said his client is not guilty of the offence.

He said that his client intends to challenge the charge against him to clear his name.

"Your Honour, he is the father of five children and was a serving member until he was charged. He will be clearing his name," Green said.

Bail was then granted on condition that the accused report to the Linstead Police Station three times weekly and return to court on June 14.

The lawyer made a successful application for Eldermire's car and other items to be returned to him.

Clerk of Court Floyd McNab told the court that on February 18, Eldermire, who was under scrutiny from his colleagues, was held on the grounds of the Spanish Town station.

The clerk said he did not get anything. However, when he returned to the cells, he was searched by a superintendent and vegetable matter resembling ganja and weighing less than an ounce was allegedly found in his possession.

He was subsequently taken into custody and charged with breaches of the Dangerous Drug Act.