AN alleged oral confession by the number one accused in the Better Hope, East Coast Demerara murder trial was thrown out of evidence yesterday by Justice Dawn Gregory.
But both accused, Mortimer Melville called ‘Dellon’ and Jevon Ismond were identified by a witness at an identification parade as the killers of policeman Nazir Ali, on 21st August, 2007, the judge and jury were told yesterday.
Justice Dawn Gregory found at a voir dire (a trial within a trial) that the number one accused, Mortimer Melville, was detained for a longer period than what is permitted by law, before being charged, and therefore had to be given consideration.
As a consequence, the oral caution statement was thrown out.
Both accused are facing trial for the murder of Nazir Ali, at Better Hope, East Coast Demerara, on August 21, 2007.
Assistant Supt. of Police Michael Kingston, the first witness called yesterday, testified that on the day in question he was on duty at the Sparendaam Police Station when he received a report of an alleged shooting committed on policeman Nazir Ali of lot 46 Sukhai Street, Better Hope, East Coast, Demerara.
As a consequence, Kingston and a party of policemen visited the scene. He also learnt that on the said date, an alleged robbery had been committed on G.Ali and others.
Witness said that on arrival at the scene, the area was well lit up by fluorescent bulbs.
He carried out a search at the scene and found four .32 shells and one warhead or fired bullet.
He collected the shells and bullet and took them to Detective Sgt.Jackson for analyst examination.
Witness said that he later arrested Mortimer Melville who was subsequently charged with murder. He said after issuing the usual caution to Melville, the accused told him something.
Witness said that he enquired from the accused whether he would wish to put what he said into writing and the accused answered ‘No’.
The other witness was Desmond Goodman, Detective Inspector of Cove and John Police Station. Goodman said he conducted an identification parade where two suspects – Mortimer Melville called ‘Dellon’ and Jevon Ismond were on parade. According to him, they were picked out by a witness who identified them as the killers of Nazir Ali.
Lawyer Mr. Huckumchand is representing Melville, while Mr. Compton Richardson is appearing for Ismond; Renita Singh and Diana Kaulesar are prosecuting.
The hearing is continuing.