Man freed of manslaughter charge

A SAN JUAN man yesterday walked out of the Port-of-Spain High Court a free man after the manslaughter charge laid against him was dismissed by Justice Malcolm Holdip. Holdip informed Grantly Charles, of La Fortune Road, Febeau Village, San Juan that he was free to go, when the State, through attorney Nadia James assisted by Marissa Gomez, could offer no further evidence against Charles.

The gardener had been charged with the October 24, 2001 unlawful killing of Godwin “Sensi” Williams during an altercation.  Charles’ left hand had been amputated and he had sustained lacerations to his left chest, right hand and right knee. When the matter was called last month, Charles’ attorney Osbourne Charles SC had submitted that based on the contents of the depositions before the court, the State should reconsider its position to indict his client. 

The totality of the evidence presented, the attorney had argued, was a clear indication that his client had acted in self defence. The State was then represented by attorney Kathy Ann Waterman-Latchoo.
Yesterday morning’s decision by the State to abort the proceedings gained praise from the defence attorney.