JFJ highlights 'deep systemic failures' in Jamaica's justice system following Mario Deane verdict

Human rights group Jamaicans for Justice says today's verdict in the Mario Deane trial brings a measure of accountability in a case that has "come to symbolise the deep systemic failures within Jamaica’s justice and law enforcement systems".

Corporal Elaine Stewart and constables Juliana Clevon and Marlon Grant were found guilty of manslaughter and misconduct in a public office, following two hours of deliberation by the seven-member jury in the trial. Stewart was also found guilty of committing acts intended to pervert the course of justice.

The charges stemmed from 31-year-old Deane's death on August 6, 2014, three days after he was beaten while in custody at the Barnett Street Police Station lock-up in St James for possession of a ganja spliff.

In a media release following delivery of the verdict, the JFJ noted that sentencing has been set for July 1, due to the unavailability of Justice Courtney Daye, who is not scheduled to return to the Westmoreland Circuit Court before then.

"This development underscores the troubling reality that administrative scheduling constraints continue to dictate the pace of justice, even after a guilty verdict has been rendered," JFJ said.

It continued: "This case underscores the painful reality that too many victims of state violence and their families continue to face: a justice system marked by protracted delays, lack of transparency, and insufficient redress."

JFJ said it remains resolute in its commitment to advocating for victims of state abuse whose cases have languished for years without closure.

"Swift justice is not a privilege; it is a fundamental right, without which accountability loses its meaning and public trust in the system erodes," JFJ said.

JFJ also said it was standing by Deane's mother Mercia Fraser, who showed unwavering courage and resilience in her pursuit of justice for more than a decade, despite repeated delays and immense personal loss.

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