The law firm of former Attorney-General Cajeton Hood has been engaged to represent Justice Shawn Innocent, a high court judge from St. Lucia, who has been removed from duty in Grenada following a criminal charge filed against him by local police.
Hood has invited the local media to a press conference today (Friday) at 11:30 a.m. at his office on Upper Church Street in St. George, where key details of the case may be disclosed to the public for the first time.
Most lawyers on the island have remained silent regarding the circumstances surrounding the decision by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Christopher Nelson, to authorize the police to bring the criminal charge against the judge.
THE NEW TODAY has learned that a group of Grenadian defense lawyers, who specialize in criminal law and frequently appear before Justice Innocent, have been providing moral support to the high court judge. Defense attorney Peter David was the first to assist the judge by securing bail for him while he awaits a hearing before a city magistrate.
The charge against the judge stems from an incident in the southern part of the island, where he allegedly brandished a weapon at a civilian named Kellon Noel. A senior lawyer has stated that a report from another local media outlet claiming the judge used his licensed firearm to assault the civilian is completely false.
He reported that Justice Innocent allegedly drew his firearm after a second encounter with a man involved in a road project in the True Blue area. He explained that during their first meeting, the individual was operating heavy machinery to cut across the road, which blocked the judge's access. He mentioned that there was a verbal exchange between the judge and the worker during this initial encounter. However, during a subsequent meeting on the road, the judge reportedly pulled out his gun as the man was approaching him.
However, police insiders provided an alternative account based on Noel's report to the authorities. One source indicated that the report claims the judge "drew his pistol and struck the complainant (Noel) on the head."
Several members of the Criminal Bar are said to have met with DPP Nelson regarding the criminal charges filed against Justice Innocent, who is currently out on bail. There is widespread speculation that influential legal entities outside of Grenada may have influenced the decision to pursue charges against Justice Innocent.
Given the current situation, Justice Innocent has been temporarily removed from his duties. To ensure minimal disruption to the criminal court proceedings in Grenada, another judge will take over Justice Innocent's responsibilities starting June 1, 2025.
The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (ECSC) is treating this matter with the highest level of seriousness, respecting Justice Innocent’s constitutional rights while reaffirming its commitment to upholding the rule of law and preserving the integrity of the judiciary.
Justice Innocent, who has been granted bail of EC$10,000.00 with one surety and no conditions, is scheduled to make his first appearance before a city magistrate on June 23.
