Volney concerned over DPP staff shortage

HIGH COURT Judge Herbert Volney on Wednesday inquired whether the shortage of staff at the office of the Director of Public Prosecution means that the wheels of justice would be slowing down. The judge made this inquiry after he had to adjourn a matter in the absence of the State prosecutor. State attorney Jerron Joseph, who held for attorney Cheron Raphael, informed the court that Raphael was ill and could not attend the day’s proceedings. When asked by the judge if the situation would be corrected, Joseph explained that the situation would be corrected soon. He then asked for an adjournment date for the matter to begin. The trial, in which Carenage resident Roxanne Headley is charged for wounding with intent, was  then adjourned to today.

In adjourning the case, Justice Volney pointed out that it was not in the State’s favour to not have assisting attorneys to take notes.
He pointed out that the English Queen’s Councils were provided with a number of juniors to work with them, and noted that this facility should be made available to the State’s attorneys. He further pointed out that implementing this facility is the only way to ensure that the public gets the quality justice they deserve. Headley was represented in the matter by defence attorney Keith Scotland.