The trial for the three cops charged in relation to the death of Mario Deane in police lockup in St. James over a decade ago will begin in the Westmoreland Circuit Court today.

This as a seven-member jury was successfully empanelled yesterday.

The prosecution will be presenting its case today.

The case was transferred from St. James to Westmoreland due to juror shortage issues in St. James.

Reports are that in August 2014, Deane was arrested on ganja-related charges.

While at the Barnett Street police lockup, he was allegedly beaten by other detainees.

Deane was admitted to the hospital and died days later.

Three cops who were reportedly on duty at the time of the incident were charged with manslaughter, misconduct in a public office and attempting to pervert the course of justice.

They are Constables Juliana Clevon and Marlon Grant, as well as Corporal Elaine Stewart.

The cops are on bail.

Deane’s mother Mercia Fraser has expressed relief that the trial will now get underway.

She is hoping it will provide closure.

Meanwhile, Jamaicans for Justice which has been lobbying for the case to go to trial so justice can be served has welcomed the news.

Executive Director Mickel Jackson said she hopes there will be no further delay.