Dancehall artist Vybz Kartel and his co-appellants were released after the Court of Appeal ruled against a retrial due to juror misconduct. The decision was based on 12 factors, including the strength of the case and impact on the appellants. In a separate incident, a suspect awaiting a murder trial was fatally shot by the police in Linstead, St. Catherine.
Category: Justice System
Improving Court Infrastructure: Urgent Call by Senator Donna Scott Mottley
Senator Donna Scott Mottley highlights the urgent need for the government to address deficiencies in court facilities, citing unsanitary conditions and pest infestations. She emphasizes the crucial role of providing safe and sanitary environments for judiciary and court staff. The Justice Minister acknowledges maintenance responsibility lies with the Court Administration Division, but procurement issues remain a challenge.
Three police officers have been charged with the assault of a fellow officer.
A judge in Kingston referred an assault case involving three police officers to restorative justice. The accused officers are to return on November 21 to hear the outcome. In a separate incident, John Roach from St. James was charged with a shooting incident and firearms violations in Kingston. In St. Mary, a father was shot and injured at home.
Court of Appeal decision: School found to have violated rights of child with dreadlocks.
The Jamaica Court of Appeal ruled in favor of a child denied access to Kensington Primary School for wearing dreadlocks. This decision is seen as a victory for Rastafarian rights, prompting the government to address discrimination against the community. In another development, two suspects were arrested in Nigeria for a cyber-attack on Jamaica's National Water Commission.
Positive Jamaican Perspective Inspires Golding to Renounce British Citizenship.
Opposition Leader Mark Golding renounces UK citizenship to fully embrace Jamaican identity, affirming dedication to representing Jamaican people. Juvenile and co-accused acquitted in shootout case after defense reveals lack of evidence. St. James police report 28% decrease in murders post-launch of 'Operation Storm', earning Prime Minister's commendation for exceptional anti-gang efforts.
Fatal Accident in Trelawny Claims Life of Bank Teller and Leaves Several Injured.
A fatal four-vehicle crash in Trelawny resulted in one death and multiple injuries. Asean Murphy, 21, lost control of his vehicle, causing a collision with a truck and two other vehicles. In a separate case, three out of four suspects involved in a large-scale gun discovery were acquitted due to lack of evidence.
Judge promised to Deliver Kartel’s Retrial Decision by July at the Latest.
Justice Marva McDonald-Bishop aims to decide on retrying Vybz Kartel and co-accused by July, considering the complexity of the murder case. The defense emphasizes the need for an acquittal to prevent further constitutional violations, stressing innocence and the impact of media on public opinion. The Court pledges careful consideration of all aspects, including Kartel's health.
Vybz Kartel and two co-accused are hopeful for release from custody today (May 30, 2024).
Dancehall artist Vybz Kartel and co-accused await Court of Appeal decision on bond for murder retrial, after Privy Council overturned previous convictions due to juror misconduct. Meanwhile, alleged gang leader 'Papa' fatally shot by security forces in August Town, St Andrew. Investigations ongoing. Court to mention retrial on June 10, 2024.
Government’s Request for Expedited Appeal Hearing in Constitutional Ruling Against DPP.
The Jamaican Government is seeking an expedited appeal in the case of DPP Paula Llewellyn's retirement age. A bartender in St. Mary was fatally shot at his home, and a police constable in Westmoreland has been charged with possession of contraband items while on duty at the station. The investigations are ongoing.
Tragic News: Taxi Crash Results in Loss of Life and Injuries to Students in Portland.
Several tragedies have unfolded recently in Jamaica. A taxi crash near Blueberry Hill resulted in two deaths and five injuries. In another incident, a teenager was charged with murder and assault at a college in Manchester. Additionally, a former police officer faces charges for kidnapping and robbery, and a former MP has been denied bail in a murder case.