The attorneys representing former Education Minister Ruel Reid and four others accused of a multimillion dollar fraud has urged that the charges against them be dismissed, citing an alleged breach of statute.

Reid, along with his wife Sharen and daughter Sharelle were arrested and charged in 2019.

Also charged are Jamaica Labour Party Councillor Kim Brown Lawrence and former Caribbean Maritime University (CMU) President, Professor Fritz Pinnock.

The trial was officially set to begin today, however, the defence complained about what it described as late and improper disclosure.

The defence lawyers said this has hindered their preparation as there is a large number of documents, and they were unable to review them all.

The prosecutors asked for an indictment, however, granting of such was opposed by Pinnock’s Attorney, Hugh Wildman.

Mr. Wildman told the presiding Judge Sanchia Burrell that the prosecutor’s case is grounded on evidence that was obtained illegally.

He said an indictment should not be granted unless the prosecutors can provide evidence independent of the Financial Investigations Division (FID).

The other defence attorneys agreed with Mr. Wildman.

The prosecutors then asked the judge to grant them until next Monday October 13, to respond to Mr. Wildman’s submission.

The request was granted and the court adjourned.