One of the country’s top defense lawyers, Attorney Grant Connell, is urging for the implementation of modern and proper mechanisms to complement the recent increase in penalties for firearm-related and sexual offenses.
Attorney Grant Connell stated on Wednesday that while he does not dispute the recent increases in penalties for those offenses, it is essential to ensure that appropriate mechanisms are in place, including the way police investigate matters, to safeguard the rights of individuals before the Court.
Connell emphasized that the establishment of a Forensic Department is an absolute necessity in making a significant difference in investigations, especially in cases involving firearms. He asserted that easier access to DNA sampling for sexual offenses, particularly those involving children, is crucial and can greatly enhance the effectiveness of investigations.
According to Connell, the police’s current archaic approach has led to the wrongful charging of individuals based on mere hearsay on numerous occasions.
“The investigations could be severely hampered if these samples are not available, making it difficult to fast-track the prevention of potential future incidents through the use of DNA evidence”, Connell confidently stated .
Connell confidently suggested that the protocol for taking samples from individuals charged with sexual offenses, especially those involving minors, may need to be reconsidered in light of current legislation. He emphasized that while obtaining the consent of the accused persons is the current requirement, there may be a need to reevaluate this process.
The lawyer asserted that he had already dealt with sexual offense cases where the defense made requests for samples to be tested just before the trial was about to start. He further emphasized that based on the results, the case had to be withdrawn. “These things are elementary and should have been done from the very beginning,” he asserted confidently.
When asked about the cost factor in having these things done, Connell said, “Justice is priceless, cost is not a factor”.