Lack of jurors hampering St Catherine Circuit Court

There are growing concerns that the lack of jurors to try matters before the St Catherine Circuit Court is hindering justice.

Attorneys and their clients, the police, and victims of crime today bemoaned setbacks being experienced due to insufficient jurors.

The Gleaner was informed that so far only nine persons have shown up for jury duty for the Hilary Session of the circuit court, which began on January 8.

Among them is a woman who today spoke about the compensation offered for jury duty.

"I left my four children at home and I am here today, but I am not sure to be selected to get the $2,000 [stipend]. Them [The Ministry of Justice] must make it a must that from yuh name on the list you have something fi get," she argued.

The absence of jurors has forced the postponement of matters scheduled to be tried.

More than 300 cases are listed before the circuit court.

Justice Yvonne Brown, who is presiding over the circuit, has expressed concerns about the lack of jurors.

The situation is made worse by the lack of court reporters.

Police have served several summonses for persons to serve as jurors in cases such as rape, murder, arson, buggery, manslaughter, and lottery scamming.

The Gleaner was informed that the court session, which should run until Easter, may come to a close on February 22 due to the issues being faced.

That is why stakeholders are calling for the authorities to address the problems in the interest of justice. 

- Rasbert Turner

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