Murder accused has no lawyer

Yesterday, Mitchell and Richard Chaitoo reappeared in the San Fernando High Court before Justice Malcolm Holdip who was told by attorney Stedson Jack that he cannot represent Mitchell, due to a hectic work schedule. Chaitoo was 13 and Mitchell, 11, when they were charged for the murder. Attorney Keith Scotland is representing Chaitoo but was absent yesterday.

Jack told Justice Holdip he has written to the Legal Aid and Advisory Authority to have another attorney assigned to his case. The issue was discussed at the last hearing in April 2016, before Justice Carla Brown-Antoine. On a date in March 2006, Luke was playing outside his house when he suddenly went missing. Days later his body was discovered in a clump of cane at the back of his home.

In 2008 Mitchell and Chaitoo were committed to stand trial after a Couva Magistrates so ruled at the end of the preliminary inquiry.

Chaitoo is from Carapichaima and Mitchell from Laventille.

State Attorney Stacy Lallo-Chong yesterday declared the prosecution’s readiness to start the trial. Attorney Jack told the court that his instructing attorney could not locate the deposition.

Mitchell, standing in the dock with co-accused Chaitoo, raised a hand and began to speak to the judge. “Sir, I could offer a next way.

Mr Mario Merritt after making complaints and pleas to people, he seems fit to help me. Mr Mario says on the next date, he will like to start.

He has an interest in the matter.

Yesterday was my birthday.” Justice Holdip wished Mitchell a happy belated birthday and asked him if the prison had offered him anything special. Mitchell was once represented by attorney Wayne Sturge who was instructed by Shawn Teekasingh. He was then represented by attorney Jason Jackson.

These attorneys were appointed by the Legal Aid and Advisory Authority, but all withdrew their representation. Justice Holdip adjourned the case to June 13 when a Case Management Conference would be held to iron out the issue regarding Mitchell’s legal repesentation.