Jury in ‘Beachy Stout’ murder trial now deliberating

The seven-member jury in the Everton 'Beachy Stout' McDonald and Oscar Barnes murder trial has retired for deliberation.

This after trial judge Justice Chester Stamp wrapped up his summation and directed the jurors, three women and four men, to consider a verdict in the high public interest murder trial.

Barnes, 39, and McDonald, 69, are on trial for murder and conspiracy to murder McDonald's second wife, Tonia, who died at the age of 32.

Tonia's charred remains were found next to her burnt Toyota Axio motor car in Sherwood Forrest in Portland on July 20, 2020.

Prosecutors said that Tonia's body had nine stab wounds and her throat was slashed.

The near six-month trial began in September 2023 and saw 14 witnesses testifying for the Crown.

Among them was star witness Denvolyn 'Bubbla' Minott.

Minott, a former employee of McDonald, is serving 19 years and 10 months' in prison for his role in Tonia's murder.

He testified that he was contracted by McDonald to murder Tonia for $3 million.

Minott further testified that he sub-contracted the hit to Barnes who allegedly carried out the act.

The Crown argued that McDonald wanted Tonia dead because he believed she was being unfaithful in the marriage.

Defence lawyers painted Minott's testimony and that of several others state witnesses including cops as a fabrication.

One of McDonald's lawyers, Christopher Townsend, for his part said that Minott got a “get out of jail” ticket like he was playing monopoly.

“The document (plea bargain) was served on us… That was a condition of him getting out of jail… not only to point fingers at somebody else and get my freedom as a result but I must go lie because I am also a liar,” Townsend stated during closing arguments.

The accused men are now awaiting the outcome of the deliberation by the jury.

- Andre Williams

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