Shooting case against St Andrew man dismissed

A St Andrew man who was accused of shooting at a man travelling in a vehicle was today freed in the Gun Court after the judge ruled that the matter should be dismissed.

Freed is Derone Rainford, who was charged with possession of a prohibited weapon, using a firearm to commit a felony, shooting with intent and wounding with intent.

The Crown alleged that Rainford had fired at the complainant, with whom he had a dispute.

At the trial, the complainant testified that he glimpsed Rainford at the time of the incident.

Although there were two other alleged eyewitnesses, they did not give evidence in court.

No forensic evidence was presented in court.

The defence argued that the Crown had failed to make a case and that the matter should be dismissed.

Presiding judge Chief Justice Bryan Sykes upheld the submission and ruled that Rainford should be acquitted of all charges.

It was alleged that about midday on October 21, 2023, Rainford fired shots at the complainant, who jumped from a vehicle and hid.

The man subsequently reported the matter to the Lawrence Tavern police.

An investigation was launched, which led to Rainford's arrest and subsequent charge.

He made numerous court appearances.

Rainford was represented by attorneys-at-law Retired Colonel Michael Deans, John Jacobs and Jeffrey Wallace.

- Rasbert Turner

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