Absent witness delays trial of woman on murder charge
THE absence of a key witness on Tuesday forced a delay in the start of the trial of 31-year-old Crystal Phillips, who is charged with the 2011 murder of her child’s father Raniel Gray.
Phillips had her bail extended by High Court Justice Judith Pusey when she made her latest appearance in court.
When the matter was called up the court was told that with the witness absent the Crown wants to proceed with the trial under the Evidence Amendment Act by utilising the statement which had been provided by the witness.
Justice Pusey then adjourned the matter until February 24 to allow for the preparation and delivery of relevant documents to the defence counsel.
Allegations are that on November 6, 2011, about 12:30 am Phillips showed up at Gray’s home in the Mt Salem, St James, where she got into an argument with Gray’s mother.
Gray later arrived at the premises and was about to enter his room when Phillips tried to prevent him from doing so.
It was further reported that Gray managed to enter the room and was followed by Phillips. Gray was then heard calling for help and Phillips was seen running from the room with a knife in her hand.
Gray, who was stabbed multiple times, was taken to the Cornwall Regional Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. Subsequent investigations led to Phillips being arrested and charged. She is being represented by attorney-at-law Albert Morgan.