High Court Assizes opens in Nevis
26 witnesses listed for Warrington Phillip’s trial

Shermel Phillip

Phillip was arraigned in the High Court this morning before Justice Francis Belle for the mention of his case which will be heard on November 10, 2008. He is represented by Dr. Henry Browne.

On Tuesday, February 20, 2007, police arrested and charged the former Leeward Islands spin bowler with the murder of his wife, Shermel Phillip, which he allegedly committed on Friday, February 16, 2007.
 
Barbadian Forensic Pathologist Dr. Stephen Jones performed an autopsy on the body of Shermel Phillip and ascertained that death was due to stab wounds to the neck with haemorrhage and shock.
 
The 27-year-old Shermel Phillip of Nevis was found dead in her car within the yard of her Brown Hill home. One neighbour said their suspicion was aroused after noticing that the engine of Phillip’s car, parked in her yard, was running for a prolonged period with the hazard lights on.

Sources said Phillip was set for an evening out with work colleagues before her passing.  Father of the deceased, calypsonian Keith ‘Dis N' Dat’ Scarborough said he was shocked and traumatised on receipt of the news of his daughter’s death.

Meanwhile, dates were set for cases of a number of persons who were also arraigned in court today.

The case of Dawn Challenger, who was charged with attempting to influence a juror during Eric Weekes murder’s trial, will be heard tomorrow (Nov. 4).   ~~Adz:Right~~

Osbourne Hewitt, who is on bail for incest and unlawful carnal knowledge charges, will be in the High Court on November 17, while Wilson Jones and Leo Roland Herbert’s cases will be heard on November 5. The duo are accused of house breaking, larceny and receiving stolen goods.

Esmerelda Dick’s case will be heard on November 17; she is accused of inflicting Grievous bodily harm.

Jermaine Charles, who was charged for indecent assault, will be tried on November 19, and was told by Justice Belle to surrender his travelling documents to the court. His bail, scheduled to be signed today, was set at EC$40 000 with two sureties.  He will also be required to report at the Tabernacle Police station on Mondays and Fridays until his case is completed.

Justice Belle told him not to interfere with the virtual complainant directly or through an agent, and if in default, Justice Belle said his bail would be withdrawn.

Cleve David’s trial for a building breaking with intent charge will be on November 20.

Before the High Court adjourned this morning, Justice Belle thanked the members of the Jury for turning up for the current Assizes. Those who were absent without permission were given one day’s grace, and Justice Belle said a fine would be imposed if they are not present tomorrow.

Justice Belle said the jury plays an important role in the administration of justice and noted that “the law does not allow us to conduct trial without jury”. He invited the jury to be available for the current assizes and also reminded them to “come properly dressed,  listen to the evidence, follow the instructions of the judge and return the verdict”.