HASLYN Hodge called Troy, arraigned on a two-count indictment for carnal knowledge and buggery, was freed after the teenage virtual complainant declined to testify.
A mixed jury had been sworn, on Wednesday morning, for the Demerara Assizes trial and the accused had pleaded not guilty. But, in the afternoon, when State Prosecutor James-Lake was expected to deliver her opening address, she informed Justice Diana Insanally that the virtual complainant decided not to testify since she did not wish to go through the trauma again.  
She had already testified at the preliminary inquiry but as the jury was already put in charge of the accused, the judge had no alternative but to direct the return of a formal not guilty verdict.
After the jurors did as directed, the accused was discharged.
But despite his acquittal in that case, Hodge was taken back to prison as he has a murder charge pending. (Barclay)