Bedingfield says he understands police disappointment over Jaden Degiorgio bail

Every court decision has to be respected, but I can understand the disappointment of the police, Glenn Bedingfield told parliament when asked about bail granted in a drug-trafficking case

The home affairs minister responded to a parliamentary question on Monday from PL MP Romilda Zarb, who asked for his views on the controversial bail decision granted to Jaden Degiorgio, the son of convicted hitman George Degiorgio.

Jaden Degiorgio was released on bail on 10 October after being arraigned on charges of aggravated possession, trafficking and importation of heroin and cocaine.

He is also charged with associating with others to sell and traffic the drugs and with money laundering. He pleaded not guilty.

In response to a parliamentary question, Bedingfield said the judiciary is independent. "Every court decision has to be respected, but I can understand the disappointment of the police," Beddingfield said.

He also praised the police for their work investigating drug-trafficking rings.

Police Inspector John-Leigh Howard told the court the investigation began on 24 September, when police arrested two people in Mellieħa, including Degiorgio. Officers later linked him to a garage where they found about 27kg of suspected drugs.

However, Magistrate Lara Lanfranco granted bail against a €30,000 deposit, which includes a €20,000 third-party guarantee, and a €50,000 personal guarantee. Degiorgio must sign the bail book twice daily.

Bedingfield did not comment further on the case.