News
After 12 Court Appearances, More Charges threatened for Man held for Marijuana
Wilkie Arthur
Freelance Court Reporter
#TurksandCaicos, August 18, 2023 – FREDERICK EDDIE ARTHUR is now charged with four separate marijuana offenses. He appeared in court again on Monday August 14th, 2023 as his case was listed for mention. Arthur’s attorney, Sheena Mair raised hell at Tamika Grant as the public prosecutor tried to explained the Crown’s position as to why after months, the defense still does not have complete disclosure, in particular the analysis certificate or report as to the drugs findings.
The Crown also hinted to the Hon Chief Magistrate and Ms. Mair, that Arthur could possibly face more drug charges once the forensic analysis findings arrives.
Ms. Grant said there were many types of drugs confiscated from the alleged accused and we would need the forensic
‘We are waiting on the reports regarding the cannabis as well as we sent out the pills for testing too,’ said Grant.
Attorney Mair labelled the tactic, ‘an abuse of the court’s process.’
‘We can’t wait on the analysis report for which my client is now charged to commence a trial.’
Mair firmly stated, ‘the only charges before the court or that I have are four charges pertaining to cannabis and that’s it, any other forensic report or findings cannot hold up this trial any longer your Honor.’
Mair reminded the court that her client had now appeared a dozen times, while the DPP’s office remains ill prepared to progress the matter.
The defence attorney objected to an absent report contributing to more charges against her client.
“…No your Honour, this can’t be and it’s an abuse of process she repeated several times.”
The court agreed. A trial, when it does proceed, will include only the three counts of possession of a controlled drug (marijuana) and one count of possession with intent to supply the same (marijuana).
The allegations date back to April of this year. A fixed trial date was set for October17th, 2023.