Crown rests case in Shineka Gray murder trial
ST JAMES, Jamaica – The prosecution has wrapped up its case against Gregory Roberts, the man accused of murdering 15-year-old Shineka Gray in 2017.
Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, Andrea Martin-Swaby, announced this development in the St James Circuit Court.
Before the disclosure, two witnesses, including Crime Scene First Responder Corporal Omar Hutchinson and Senior Superintendent Wayne Josephs, were recalled to clarify certain matters.
Josephs was the officer in charge of crime for St James in 2017.
Presiding High Court Judge Justice Bertram Morrison exercised his discretion to call a witness not affiliated with the crown or defence. This witness, who had previously given a statement to the police, is expected to be questioned today.
Following the judge’s procedure, the defence is anticipated to present its case, followed by closing arguments.
Gray, who was a grade 10 student, was found dead three days after she had been reported missing. She was last seen alive in Montego Bay while on her way home from the funeral of a schoolmate.
Roberts and his co-accused, Mario Morrison, were later taken in custody in connection with the killing.
Morrison pleaded guilty in September 2022 after entering a plea deal with the state and was sentenced to life in prison a month later.
A total of 16 of 18 witnesses have testified to date before a seven-member jury.
The case has been adjourned until 2:00 pm.
– Anthony Lewis