The hearing to determine a retrial or the release of entertainers Vybz Kartel and Shawn Storm along their two co-accused has been delayed until Tuesday, June 18.
After hearing arguments from the prosecution and defense over a five-day period, Judge Marva McDonald Bishop stated that the matter would be wrapped up next week.
Today (June 14), the prosecution argued that social media commentary alone cannot determine whether Kartel and his co-accused should not get a retrial, asserting that it is possible to find jurors in Kingston who are unaware of the case’s publicity. They also noted that some social media content came from reputable news outlets, making it fair commentary under the open justice principle.
The prosecution further argued that if the appellants face financial hardships as stated in their affidavits, the state can step in to support a retrial.
On the second day of the hearing, the defense argued that a new trial would be a waste of taxpayers’ money and a financial strain on the appellants.
Vybz Kartel, in his affidavit, stated that a new trial would hinder his ability to provide for his 17 dependents.
Next week, the defense will deliver their closing arguments and address the prosecution’s stance that the men should be retried for the murder of Clive “Lizard” Williams. The court also heard from the prosecution that a possible retrial date could be as early as 2025, which would mark the 15 year anniversary of the men’s incarceration.
Vybz Kartel, Shawn Storm, and their two co-accused will learn their fate next week when the question of a retrial or release will be answered.
