THE fact that a witness collapsed in court under cross-examination, and there was no medical help forthcoming was commented on yesterday by Justice James Bovell-Drakes, the trial judge in the matter. The judge noted the sudden collapse of the witness, Joycelyn Montague Adams, which caused the court to adjourn the murder trial of Edmond Braithwaite while court prosecutors and other employees tried to resuscitate her.
But the condition of the witness grew worse after a period of over 30 minutes and eventually had to be taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital by a Supreme Court vehicle, where she was admitted.
However, the judge, noting that the press was present, pointed out that the time had come when  there should be some  medical facility at the court to provide help in cases of emergency like the one they had just experienced.
On the other hand, Senior Counsel Mr. Bernard De Santos who was the lawyer cross-examining the witness on behalf of the defence when she  collapsed, suggested to the judge that he should consult the Registrar and ask  him to take steps to have a medical facility established.
Indicted at the trial for the murder of Sharmin Mc Kay is her lover Marlon Braithwaite of Bare Root, East Coast Demerara, who is accused of the alleged crime on June 15, 2009.
Hearing continues today before Justice James Bovell-Drakes and a 12-member jury.
Prosecuting in the matter are Miss Dhanika Singh and Mrs. Tashana Lake.