TALKBACK FRIDAY

THE DIRECTOR of public prosecutions has cited security concerns and the right to a fair trial among the reasons for the transfer of the Pathways murder case from Montego Bay to Kingston. We asked The Gleaner’s social media followers their thoughts on her decision. Responses sourced from Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

She is right. If the trial had stayed in MoBay, it could have easily turned into a circus and a nightmare in terms of security. Besides, I understand St James Circuit Court is not currently operating?

– @Petchary

Well I agreed with moving it. In fact I raised concerns prior to that decision. She did the right thing. The police though failed to complete the assignment. Perhaps high-value detainees ought to be airlifted in the future. That would lower the risk and fear of toll fees.

– @happy_jamaican

Well better be safe than sorry. Just sad how it all ended with the tragic loss of life to security force. – @reeper123

She didn’t have to move him until it’s time for the trial. Why move a man to be just charged? A SSP could have read him his rights and charge him in MoBay. Use Area 1 SSP or someone out of the division if you think it will be a conflict of interest.

– Sophia Smith

If only we could’ve turn back the hands of time the officer would still be alive. – Tsae Yahs Ayoshast

We cry for the young officer who died in this circus. That is all.

– San Sant

I thought he had to face the court in the parish where he was accused before a change of venue could be requested. – Joel Boothe

No problems with this decision. – Mim A Mim

What’s the sense of having a court system which seems to be only effective in Kingston?

– @sinco_voss

Wonder if she understands what she left unsaid? – @pebilary

I never know that there’s no fair trial in MoBay. – @beauty_venven

People are more upset about missing out on a circus than the fact that a hard-working man lost his life. – @despo_rado

This is what upset me the most. Someone’s child, partner, cousin lost his life. Why didn’t she travel to Montego Bay and see to it there was a “fair trial” – @prezmitch

You know our ppl live for a circus versus what really matters. What a sad state. – @therealkerryd876

Why moving the case to Kingston when the incident happen in Montego Bay?That’s where the case should have been tried.