The preliminary inquiry into the murder of Yohance Douglas is now set to begin on May 20 after it failed to commence yesterday before Acting Chief Magistrate Juliet Holder-Allen.
The adjournment came after the Special Prosecutor from the chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) failed to appear. On April 1 the court was told that a special prosecutor who is yet to be named will be prosecuting the case.
Two police officers Gerald Alonzo and Mahendra Baijnauth were jointly charged on March 28 with the slaying of 18-year-old Yohance Douglas. Baijauth was also charged with the attempted murder of Ronson Grey.
Senior Counsel Bernard De Santos appeared in association with defence counsel Hukumchand as attorneys for Baijnauth. Attorney-at-law Compton Richardson appeared on behalf of Alonzo.
De Santos expressed concern over the delay. He informed the court he was recently retained as Baijnauth's counsel but was in a position to proceed had the prosecutor shown up.
Police barricades were erected outside the court to prevent protestors from entering the courtyard. Nevertheless some protestors managed to assemble in the yard and verbally abused the officers upon their arrival and departure.