Basseterre, St. Kitts, October 14, 2015 (SKNIS): In an effort to effectively carry out the duties of the High Court criminal assizes, Dane Hamilton Q.C., a well know criminal attorney, is presently in the Federation assisting the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis.
Prime Minister Harris made mention of the last criminal assizes stating that it “was a dismal performance by the Office of Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) where only 3 of 35 cases were tried.
“Thirty two (32) cases were traversed to the current September assizes, Dr. Harris said, adding that Dane Hamilton’s support is a constructive boost to the criminal justice system.
Dr. Harris said that the positive action which his government took to resolve the tenure of the former DPP has brought stability, finality and forward movement to the prosecution.
“The criminal justice system is best served by a high performing office of the DPP,” he said. “By drawing on the expertise and experience of Dane Hamilton, one of the regions finest, we free the criminal justice system for efficacious outcomes. We will not put a price on justice. We are prepared to go all the way to protect our citizens and residents and to preserve the sanctity of the justice system in general and the criminal justice system in particular.”
Prime Minister Harris reported on some of the cases while the former DPP was employed.
“In the May assizes, I am advised that five matters were nolle prossed ( abandoned or dismissed) by the former DPP, Mr. Sinanan,” he said. “The consequence of these actions and others, is that claims just under $10 million to date confront the taxpayers of this country. Certainly, we could not allow this unnecessary haemorrhage on the public purse to continue.”
Dr. Harris said that discussions between the Attorney General’s Office and the Office of the Chief Justice are currently underway that could possibly see the official opening of a second High Court as early as 2016.