By Aaron Humes: Another setback has emerged in the high-profile rape case against attorney Orson Elrington, after a key statement to decide whether the trial will be closed to the press and observers was not forthcoming on Thursday, delaying a ruling expected today, Friday.
The court had anticipated a crucial filing from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Cheryl-Lynn Vidal, Senior Counsel, by midday Thursday, but the deadline passed without the expected submission. High Court Justice Nigel Pilgrim had ordered the DPP to provide a statement from the virtual complainant, which is essential for determining whether the trial will be conducted behind closed doors. However, shortly after 9 a.m., Director Vidal informed the court that the complainant was unable to provide the statement due to her current condition. Human Services has now stepped in to assist her, prompting the prosecution to request additional time.
In response, Justice Pilgrim agreed to postpone the case until Tuesday, March 3. His ruling, originally expected to be delivered this morning, has now been rescheduled for Wednesday, March 4. The substantive hearing will take place immediately afterward, with the crown set to present its case on March 4, 10, and 11.
Attorney Alifa Elrington, representing the accused, expressed her disappointment over the delay to reporters: “I believe that there is always a disappointment when you cannot proceed with a trial, either which side. You came prepared to proceed with a trial and we cannot proceed with a trial. However, the decision has been made and we have to go by virtue of what the judge said so we wait and see what happens on Tuesday.”
Senior Counsel Wilfred Elrington, also representing the defense, remained composed regarding the adjournment. “Just another adjournment, nothing new,” he remarked. When asked about the prosecution’s difficulties, he confirmed the Crown’s challenges in preparing its submission. “So nothing big, just procedural,” he added.
Orson Elrington has pleaded not guilty to the alleged rape of a woman he met at a nightclub in January of 2023.
The post Key statement delay stalls high-profile rape case against attorney Orson Elrington appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Aaron Humes: Another setback has emerged in the high-profile rape case against attorney Orson Elrington, after a key statement to decide whether the trial will be closed to the press and observers was not forthcoming on Thursday, delaying a ruling expected today, Friday. The court had anticipated a crucial filing from the Office of
The post Key statement delay stalls high-profile rape case against attorney Orson Elrington appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.