DPP reinstates murder charge against Carlyle Barton

Carlyle-Barton-1Georgetown: The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has advised that in accordance with Section 72 (2) (ii) (a) of the Criminal Law (Procedure) Act, 10:01-, she has remit and directed that the Preliminary lnquiry (Pl) in the matter of Carlyle Barton charged with the offence of Murder to be re-opened. She dispatched a letter addressed to Magistrate Fabayo Azore. The DPP directed that the Pl be reopened for some witnesses to complete their testimony and to allow for other witnesses who had not testified during the first Pl, to do so. Subsequent to the discharge of the accused Carlyle Barton for the offence of Murder on the 19th November,2013, a perusal of the police file revealed that there was a need for certain investigations to be carried out. On the DPP's advice, the file was sent to the police on the 6th December, for these investigations to be carried out. On the 11th December, 2013 the police file was returned to the DPP's Chambers for further legal advice and is presently in the hands of the prosecutor.

Carlyle Barton, on May 27, last, who was allegedly captured on video surveillance shooting Nelson at Orange Walk, Bourda, was discharged by Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. Barton was charged with murder.

According to reports, a Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) surveillance system had showed Barton whipping out a handgun, aiming and firing at Nelson who was seen falling after he received the shot to his head. It also revealed the man calmly entering his car and drove away.

The charge was first read to Barton by Magistrate Sueanna Lovell on May 30 and thereafter the matter engaged Chief Magistrate Priya Sewnarine-Beharry’s attention.

The Chief Magistrate subsequently reassigned the case to Magistrate Azore, who freed the accused on grounds of lack of prosecution.