Former Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) MP, attorney Keod Smith was formally arraigned in a magistrate’s court Friday on three charges.

Appearing before Acting Chief Magistrate Joyann Pratt-Ferguson, Smith pleaded not guilty to assault, threats of harm and damage.

It is alleged that on April 25 while at the Clifton Heritage site, Smith assaulted fellow attorney, Frederick Smith Q.C., put him in fear and caused $881 of damage to a 2012 Nissan Bersa, the property of Hertz Rental Company.

The prosecution did not object to bail. Smith then was released on $1,500 bail of his own recognizance.

Following the arraignment, Smith’s attorney, Derek Ryan told reporters his client is prepared to fight the battle until the very end.

“The trial is set,” he said.

“Witnesses are called by the prosecution because you have to understand that there’s a presumption of innocence on the part of my client,” he said.

“The prosecution is who brought him here, so we will listen to what their witnesses have to say. My client stands ready to vigorously defend those accusations.”

Despite the legal battle, Smith says the fight to save Clifton Bay also continues.

“This accusation that has been made is not going to deter me one bit,” Smith told reporters.

“The calls that we have been receiving since all of this has come to light has been overwhelming in terms of support. The support is not just generic, it also is in the context of my politics and my family is here as well. My wife is by my side and we will fight this battle when we return later this year.”

Smith’s matter has been adjourned to November 20 and 21 at 11:00 a.m.

Less than three hours later, Fred Smith QC appeared before Magistrate Pratt-Ferguson in connection with the same matter.

At the time, he was charged with causing harm to Mario Joffer on April 25 at the Clifton Heritage site.

When asked how he wanted to plead, Smith said “this is no more than rank political victimization.

He also told the magistrate he needed to alert the court about the discrimination against him.

However, Smith, whose attorney is J. Henry Bostwick QC, eventually pleaded “not guilty.”

He was released $500 bail on his own recognizance.

Smith’s matter has been adjourned to December 10 and 11 at 11:00 a.m.