Fisherman avoids jail after washing away evidence

A St Catherine fisherman who allegedly attempted to wash away his dead brother’s blood from a crime scene in Old Harbour, was on Thursday acquitted of attempting to pervert the course of justice.

The police testified that on September 13, 2023, Efrem Ronaldson, 34, of Old Harbour, came upon his brother’s blood at the crime scene. He was advised by a bystander to fetch water and remove the evidence. Despite being halted by a police officer, Ronaldson ultimately spilled the bucket of water, leading to his arrest and subsequent charge. The St Catherine Parish Court was abuzz as the evidence unfolded.

Attorney-at-law Kalisa Greaves-Fearon argued that Ronaldson lacked the requisite intent to impede justice.

“The defendant did not display the necessary intent; he did not act knowingly and with intent to attempt to impede or influence the outcome of the case,” Greaves Feron contended. She also argued that the crime scene was not altered by Ronaldson’s action and crime scene detectives were able to gather blood sample evidence.

Senior Parish Judge Desiree Alleyne, concurring with the defence’s stance, highlighted the absence of discernible benefits for Ronaldson or his family in washing away the blood. Consequently, the judge acquitted Ronaldson, albeit admonishing him for disobeying a lawful order.