A case of mistaken identity. That’s how a relieved Jessy Alphonsa Lashley described the circumstances that led to him being arrested and charged with robbery almost six years ago.
Yesterday, an elated Lashley walked out of the Supreme Court a free man after he was found not guilty of robbing Jennifer Hunte of a chain, pendant, ring and a bangle, all valued $1 750, on August 22, 2012.
Following a two-and-a-half hour summation by Justice Randall Worrell in Court No. 2, it took a nine-member jury comprising three women and six men just under an hour to return the verdict.
Lashley, 31, of Kings Village, Kings Street, The City, was represented by Mohia Ma’aat, while Crown Counsel Oliver Thomas prosecuted.
When the DAILY NATION caught up with Lashley at the home of his wife in 3rd Avenue, Goddings Road, St Michael, yesterday, he said he was relieved that his innocence had finally been proven.
“I can’t even explain how I feel right now,” he said as he held his six-month-old daughter Makilah in his hands.
“This had me hold down for a good while so I am really glad to get it over with. This was definitely a case of mistaken identity.”
During the case, Constable Gregory Parris testified that he arrested Lashley based solely on a description that indicated a man wearing a blue shirt and blue pants had committed the act. (RB)
