HAMILTON, Bermuda (Trinidad Express):

Premier Ewart Brown has spoken of his "deep regret" after government backbencher Nelson Bascome, arrested last week, was charged with theft and corruption.

Brown called it a "human tragedy".

Bascome, 51, was arrested last Thursday, months after stepping down as Minister of Health following a police investigation.

Police have declined to comment on the situation but legal sources said the charges related to Bascome's maintenance business dealings.

No date has yet been given for his court appearance.

"This is a deeply regrettable development and a human tragedy. We must allow the law to take its course. However, we must not forget he is innocent unless guilt is determined by the courts. Every accused person is entitled to that," Premier Brown said in a statement.

Bascome, a counsellor at a drug treatment centre, stepped down from government in February when a file was passed by the police to the Department of Public Prosecutions.