In a dramatic turn of events at the Serious Offenses Court, the defense has filed for a stay of proceedings in the high-profile embezzlement case involving the Bank of St. Vincent and the Grenadines (BOSVG). The case, which dates back to July 2020, centers on Yvonne Patterson, a former BOSVG employee, and Fitzroy Jr. Izaras Marcus Douglas, both accused of stealing substantial sums from the bank, totaling $442,310.95.
During the latest hearing on July 4, Senior Magistrate Colin John announced that a fresh trial would be necessary due to the retirement of former Magistrate Bertie Pompey before the trial’s conclusion. Attorney Grant Connell, representing Patterson, immediately contested this, arguing that the delay, predominantly caused by the prosecution, constitutes an abuse of process.
Connell emphasized that the case has dragged on for four years with 13 adjournments, far exceeding the six to nine months typically expected for such matters. He criticized the prosecution for its part in the delays, noting that some witnesses were not even in the country. “Starting over after four years is unjust and clearly an abuse of process,” Connell asserted.
Prosecutor Renrick Cato countered, pointing out that the investigator was on the stand during the last court session and that the defense had contributed to the delays with frequent adjournment requests. Cato argued that modern technology allows for remote testimonies, making the absence of witnesses a non-issue.
Connell reiterated his points, stressing that his client has been consistently attending court and that restarting the trial would cause her undue stress and hardship. He highlighted Patterson’s inability to travel due to the pending charges and the physical difficulty she faced, noting her visible limp as she approached the dock. Connell also argued that it was unreasonable to blame the defense for the entirety of the delays, stating, “You cannot be asking for 20 out of 30 adjournments for three years, and turn around and blame the prosecution.”
The court heard further arguments from Connell, who challenged the notion that the defense was solely responsible for the delays, pointing out that a voir dire requested by the defense was delayed due to the prosecution’s actions.
After considering the submissions, Magistrate John instructed Connell and Michael Wyllie, Douglas’ attorney, to file written submissions supporting their request for a stay of proceedings. Both Patterson and Douglas remain out on bail as the court reviews these critical motions.