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Absence of Representation: Chaos Ensues as DPP’s Office Fails to Appear, Leaving Dozens of Cases Adjourned in St. Kitts and Nevis

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) office in St. Kitts and Nevis has recently faced significant challenges, as 32 cases scheduled for the magistrates’ court were abruptly adjourned due to a complete absence of representation from the DPP’s office. Both the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Crown Counsels failed to appear, leaving lawyers, witnesses, and defendants in a state of uncertainty.

The no-show from the DPP’s office had far-reaching consequences, causing frustration and inconvenience for all parties involved. Lawyers, who had invested time and effort in preparing for the cases, expressed their legitimate displeasure with the sudden adjournments. Some lawyers even went so far as to request the complete dismissal of their cases, citing the DPP’s absence as a fundamental factor.

#12 on the list of 32 cases was a charge of murder committed on 3rd October last year, one of the dozens of murders since the Drew Administration took office and dismantled and decimated the effective Peace Program established by the previous Government.

Several charges are for larceny and other forms of stealing committed since Drew took over. This does not support claims that the Drew Administration cares about the outbreak of brazen criminality sweeping the island of St. Kitts since August last year.

At least One senior lawyer called for all charges to be dismissed for want of prosecution.

Senior lawyers have pointed out that the post of Director of Public Prosecutions has been vacant since September last year, a situation entirely without precedent in the storied history of the administration of justice in this country.

This incident has raised concerns about the functionality and efficiency of the DPP’s office, which is vital for upholding the rule of law and ensuring fair trials. Addressing these issues will be crucial to restoring confidence in the justice system and preventing such disruptions in the future.