THE case involving Andre Ruddock, who was accused of murdering 39-year-old Tanika Gardner in October last year at Pathways International Kingdom of Restorative Ministries in St James, has been pushed to January 11, 2023.

During a case management hearing on Thursday in the Supreme Court, it was revealed that the case file was not ready, as defence lawyers and the prosecution were engaged in discussions in the matter.

The presiding judge adjourned the matter and Ruddock, who attended Wednesday's hearing via a video link, was ordered to be physically present in court on January 11.

On October 17 last year, Ruddock allegedly slashed the throat of Gardner during a supposed sacrificial ritual.

Ruddock was allegedly ordained by the now deceased leader of the church, Kevin Smith, as archangel Gabriel on the night of the murder. Pastor Smith reportedly told all the members of the church to attend the ritual service dressed in white and to expect to board an ark.

Smith allegedly told a member of the church to slash the throat of Gardner but the member refused.

Ruddock allegedly took the knife and carried out the pastor's desire.

Ruddock is being represented by attorney-at-law Anthony Williams and Venice Brown.

Smith died in a motor vehicle accident in Church Road in Bog Walk, St Catherine.

— Jason Cross