Decision on his parents whose accusations are of a less serious nature to be taken later on

Keith Pace, his sons Carlos and Cleaven, and his partner Maria Grixti were remanded in custody after appearing in court on this morning, charged in connection with a Police investigation into usury and the discovery of around €150,000 in cash hidden in two residences.

Keith Pace had also appeared in court nearly a year ago, following threats made against two journalists and a cameraperson from ONE News. He had been given a suspended sentence and is now also charged as a repeat offender.

Pace’s parents, Emanuela and Lawrence, were also arraigned as part of the same operation. A decision on their request for bail is expected to be delivered by Magistrate Monica Vella later on.

The six individuals, who were arrested on Monday after an intensive Police investigation, all pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against them.

In a packed Courtroom 11, the Prosecution stated that, following an investigation into their undeclared wealth, it was found that Keith Pace had never held legitimate employment to justify his assets.

When Police entered his residence, they discovered around €120,000 in cash hidden in various places, including in the fireplace and in the ceilings. A further €29,000 was found hidden in a ceiling at his parents’ residence.

The Prosecution also stated that phone records were found indicating that Pace had been lending money at rates attributed to usury, while Maria Grixti handled the administration of the funds. It was also alleged that Pace had entered third-party residences, carried out works on them, and subsequently profited from them.

The Defence requested bail for Emanuela and Lawrence Pace due to medical issues, and for Grixti because she has a three-year-old child.

The Prosecution left the decision on the elderly parents’ bail in the hands of the Court, noting that their involvement in the case appeared to be less serious.

However, it objected to granting bail to Grixti, arguing that she had played a particularly active role in the alleged offence.

The Court denied the request for bail and stated that it would issue its decree regarding the parents. A freezing order on assets was also issued.