Portland driver not charged

The driver of the truck, which was involved in the motor vehicle crash that claimed the lives of 14 persons in Portland on December 19 has still not being charged, despite threats of legal action from his attorney.



Last Friday, attorney at law Carl McDonald expressed anger at the police for keeping his client in custody longer than the period allowed by law, without charge.



Christopher Devon Clarke, 31, turned himself in to the Port Antonio police on December 29 about 2:15 in the morning, accompanied by his lawyer.



Clarke was on the run for ten days following the accident which also claimed the life of a 10 year old boy.



Last Friday, MacDonald threatened to file an action in court for his client to be either charged or released.



In response Sergeant Henry Forbes of the Port Antonio Traffic Department says the police are not perturbed by any threat from Clarke’s attorney, as investigators are simply following due process.



He explained that Clarke is still being interrogated, and at the appropriate time action will be taken where necessary.



Since his surrender Clarke has undergone three days of counseling conducted by trained personnel attached to the Jamaica Constabulary Force.



Seven persons survived the accident including Lynford Jackson, who is still in the St Anns Bay Hospital, recovering from a fractured arm and leg.