Prominent defense attorney Grant Connell delivered a stinging critique of his legal colleagues during a special High Court sitting on Wednesday, accusing many in the fraternity of hypocrisy and raising serious concerns about the state of the justice system in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
“My lord, I am no hypocrite. Some of my colleagues can attest to that. I tell it as it is. We are a fraternity riddled with hypocrisy,” Connell declared, addressing the court at the ceremonial close of the Criminal Assizes and in recognition of Sejilla McDowall’s elevation to acting High Court Judge.
Connell lamented what he described as a “mass exodus” from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), warning that justice is being compromised as experienced prosecutors continue to leave. He cited the recent departures of former Assistant DPP Karim Nelson and Crown Counsel Rose Ann Richardson, and questioned the absence of Crown Counsel Richie Maitland, whom he praised for his courtroom impact.
“When this office is affected, justice is infected,” Connell said, warning that the burden on remaining prosecutors like Rene Simmons could prove overwhelming. “I don’t want her to drop down in this court because of pressure,” he added.
He also turned his attention to the deteriorating conditions of police stations, likening the Vermont station to a goat pen and revealing that the interview room at Central Police Station was recently shut down due to mold contamination. “The police station is the accident and emergency of justice. If you get it wrong there, justice can go begging,” Connell stressed.
Despite the criticism, Connell acknowledged the efforts of hardworking officers operating under limited resources, highlighting ASP Nolan ‘Grandpa’ Dalaway for swiftly solving a high-profile case.
Connell’s remarks were made in the presence of top police officials, including Acting Commissioner Enville Williams.
Source: TheVincentian-Newspaper