Women to become state witnesses

The two women charged in connection with the murders of a young honeymooning couple in Antigua in 2008 have agreed to become state witnesses in exchange for immunity from prosecution.



Government Prosecutor Adli Smith announced in court this morning that a deal was struck with Francesca Delacruz and Ramona Gavacio.



The two women were charged with handling property stolen from Ben and Catherine Mullany, who were murdered on July 27, 2008, at their seaside cottage at the Cocos Hotel on the island’s west coast.



Catherine, a 31-year-old doctor, died instantly in what is believed to have been a botched robbery.



Her husband, a trainee physiotherapist who was also 31, died in hospital in the UK after being flown home while in a coma.



Two men, Kaniel Martin and Avie Howell, have been charged with the murders and are awaiting trial.