Juror shortage creates issues at St Catherine Circuit Court

Several complaints have been echoing in St Catherine regarding juror shortages at the circuit court, which some say has been crippling the its operations. 

It is reported that there are more than 300 cases to be disposed of on the Hilary Session of the St Catherine Circuit Court, which started on January 8 this year. Since its start, only nine jurors have reportedly shown up for duties.

Among them is a woman who today spoke about the compensation offered for jury duty.

"I left my four children at home and I am here today, but I am not sure to be selected to get the $2,000 [stipend]. Them [The Ministry of Justice] must make it a must that from yuh name on the list you have something fi get," she argued.

The absence of jurors has forced the postponement of matters scheduled to be tried.

More than 300 cases are listed before the circuit court.

Justice Yvonne Brown, who is presiding over the circuit, has expressed concerns about the lack of jurors.

The situation is made worse by the lack of court reporters.

Police have served several summonses for persons to serve as jurors in cases such as rape, murder, arson, buggery, manslaughter, and lottery scamming.

The STAR understands that the court session, which should run until Easter, may come to a close on February 22 due to the issues being faced.

That is why stakeholders are calling for the authorities to address the problems in the interest of justice. 

- Rasbert Turner

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