Attorney John Bostwick is still permitted to practice law as an appeal has suspended the effect of his conviction for unauthorized possession of ammunition, Bar Association President Elsworth Johnson has confirmed.

Last month, Bostwick, 45, paid a $15,000 fine to avoid the alternative punishment of 15 months' imprisonment. He also filed an appeal against the decision. However, Johnson said Bostwick could face disciplinary action from the bar if he loses his appeal.

At the sentencing hearing last month, defense lawyer Wayne Munroe, QC, asked Deputy Chief Magistrate Andrew Forbes not to impose a custodial sentence as the conviction had placed Bostwick's legal career in jeopardy.

Munroe said, "Your worship could recall the effect of the conviction. What you've done thus far amounts to punishment as a lawyer."

Bostwick was an opposition senator when he was arrested at Grand Bahama International Airport after a security screener found a magazine with 10 .22-caliber bullets in his knapsack. FNM Leader Hubert Minnis fired Bostwick from the Senate post after he refused to resign.

Forbes rejected Bostwick's defense that he was framed by unknown people as "unconvincing and unbelievable". At trial, Bostwick's lawyers suggested the bullets may have been planted by a valet who had access to his rental car. He also claimed that housekeeping staff were found in his room at the Grand Lucaya Hotel, where the bag had been left unattended.

By Artesia Davis

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