Case dropped against three of seven in Central Village illegal slaughterhouse matter

Three of the seven people who were arrested and charged over an illegal slaughterhouse that was discovered in Central Village, St Catherine, last December were today freed as the prosecution withdrew its case against them due to a lack of evidence.

Freed are Neville Higgins, Davian McCrae, and Andre Henry, who were charged with killing and wounding of an animal, unlawful possession of property, possession of agricultural produce without a licence, butchering without a licence, no food handler’s permit, failure to give notice of intention, and using a stamp to deceive the public.

The Clerk of Court told the judge that a successful prosecution could not be mounted due to the absence of a crucial statement.

Senior Parish Court Judge Desiree Alleyne then freed the men.

Their attorney, Kemoy McEkron, said that justice was served.

“There could not be a viable prosecution against my clients based on the evidence presented and upon my reading of the disclosure of the matter, so I am pleased that they were vindicated,” McEkron told The Gleaner.

Meanwhile, the case continues against the other four accused — Omar Thompson, Kemar Isaacs, Kevin Bolton, and Sean Samuels.

The case was set for mention on December 1.

Allegations are that on December 20, 2024, police personnel swooped down on a section of Big Lane in Central Village, St Catherine, and discovered an illegal abattoir.

Checks revealed several carcasses of cattle and live animals.

The police also found a stamp that health inspectors use.

Following an investigation, several persons were arrested and charged.

They have made numerous court appearances.

- Rasbert Turner

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