A shortage of jurors today forced the trial of the three soldiers charged with the 2010 murder of businessman  Keith Clarke to be adjourned until April 29.

When the case came up today in the Home Circuit Court, there was a request from the defence to stay the trial until an appeal filed by the soldiers has been heard and determined.

King’s Counsel Valerie Neita Robertson informed the court that an appeal was filed and sought an adjournment, but the Director of Public Prosecutions said she was not served and was not aware of an appeal being filed in the case against Lance Corporals Greg Tingling and Odel Buckley and Private Arnold Henry.

The DPP implored Justice Palmer to start the trial while noting that the case has been before the court for 12 years.

Justice Palmer then refused the request by the defence to await the outcome of the appeal.

However, only 18 jurors were available for duty and the DPP pointed out that at least 40 jurors had to be available for the trial.

Clarke was shot 21 times at his home in Kirkland Close, St. Andrew on March 27, 2010, during a police-military operation to nab then fugitive Christopher “Dudus” Coke.