THE TWO MEN CHARGED with wounding and robbing Government Senator Virginia Irene Sandiford-Garner just over three years ago, will face a new judge and jury.
The retrial was ordered today by Justice Olson Alleyne after more than two months of hearings in the matter – most of which involved legal arguments in the absence of the jury.
Today Justice Alleyne discharged that jury, informing them that after such a prolonged trial – including a five-week voir dire and a week’s absence by one defence attorney – the case’s lead investigator would now be going on three weeks’ sick leave.
The judge therefore decided that, based on the nine-member jury panel’s attendance since March 5, and with some consideration for their personal obligations, it would be best to discharge them.
The two accused men are Jermaine Julian Andre Worrell, 22, of Hinds Hill, Cave Hill, St Michael, and Reniko Jamal Taylor, 21, of Block 5F Division Drive, Eden Lodge, St Michael, who are charged with robbing Sandiford-Garner of a $1 000 cellular phone, and wilfully and maliciously wounding the senator, on the night of October 12, 2011.
Attorneys Marlon Gordon and Safiya Moore are representing Taylor, while Kendrid Sargeant is defending Worrell.
Principal Crown Counsel Elwood Watts led the prosecution’s case. (COASTLINE COMMUNICATION)
