A magistrate has recused herself from hearing the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) of a block-maker who is charged with the murder of a man whom he allegedly strangled during a robbery on Church Street.
Senior Magistrate Leron Daly, yesterday made the announcement when the case came before her at the Georgetown Magistrates ‘ Courts.
As a result, the matter was sent back to Chief Magistrate, Ann McLennan, who will now assign another Magistrate to handle the matter.
Ashaka John, 24 of ‘A’ Field Sophia, was not required to plead to the indictable charge which stated that on October 12, 2019, at Church Street, Queenstown, Georgetown, he murdered Jason Bowen.
The accused, who is said to be mentally ill was stabbed a few weeks ago to the lower left abdomen during a fight at the Lusignan Prison. He is being represented by attorney-at-law, George Thomas.
According to information, Bowen was chased by the accused and was apprehended outside the Office of the Leader of the Opposition on Church Street.
It is alleged that Bowen was dealt several lashes about his body. He was then allegedly strangled with a belt belonging to the accused.
After committing the act, the accused attempted to escape, but he was caught by public-spirited citizens and handed over to the police, hence the present charge.
