Murder trial aborted

Marquis was charged with the murder of San Fernando taxi driver Cassius Allum, who was killed on August 2, 2003.

The judge’s decision in the Port-of-Spain Fifth Criminal Court came after submissions by defence attorney Pamela Elder SC on issues of negligence by the prosecution.

Rampersad told the court that it was unfortunate and regrettable that there was a demonstration of gross negligence to properly and adequately represent the State.

"I am therefore forced to do justice and preserve justice by aborting this trial," Justice Rampersad.

The judge described the negligence as "nothing less than scandalous," using the words from a judge in a similar case.

"Police officers and the prosecution must do their job as they have a responsibility to the court and to the public in avoiding all miscarriages," said Rampersad.

Marquis was represented by Pamela Elder SC and Owen Hinds Jr, while George Busby prosecuted. Director of Public Prosecutions Geoffrey Henderson was present at the trial.