HAMILTON, Bermuda, CMC – The stepson of Bermuda’s Opposition Leader Kim Swan has gone on trial in the United States and could face the death penalty if convicted of the first-degree murder of a North Carolina state trooper.
Edwardo Wong, Jr, the son of Swan’s wife, Cindy and her former husband, is charged with killing Trooper Shawn Blanton after the highway patrolman pulled him over for a traffic stop in June 2008.
Wong, 40, of Florida, does not dispute that he shot 24-year-old Blanton but denies it was premeditated.
Mrs. Swan, who married the United Bermuda Party leader in 1996, told the local media that she had been estranged from her son since he was 12 years old.
She said her husband has met her son only once.
“He was raised by his father (who was killed in prison). I’m very hurt and disappointed because of the situation.
“My hope for him is that he finds redemption for himself and for his actions and that he gets a fair trial,” added Mrs. Swan, who married her Opposition Leader in 1996. They have a daughter together.
Wong, Jr. is accused of first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, armed robbery, firearm and drug possession.
