DAY 34- ELECTION FRAUD TRIAL…POLICE INTERROGATION OF MINGO UNDER SCRUTINY

By: Tiana Cole | HGP Nightly News |

Day 34 of the Election Fraud Trial centered on a voir dire hearing before Acting Chief Magistrate Faith McGusty as the defense challenged the admissibility of police statements allegedly obtained from accused Clairmont Mingo, former Returning Officer for Region Four.

Defense Attorney Nigel Hughes outlined six objections to the statements’ admissibility, arguing that Mingo’s constitutional rights were violated while in police custody. Among them were:

1. Denial of legal access — Attorney Darren Wade was reportedly removed from the CID compound when attempting to meet Mingo.
2. Questioning without counsel — Mingo was allegedly interrogated despite requesting his lawyer’s presence.
3. Prolonged detention — He was held for over six days, with two to three days elapsing before any questioning began.
4. Police coercion — Hughes claimed that Assistant Superintendent Mitchell Caesar told Mingo that the police would proceed without waiting for his lawyer.
5. Conditional release threat — Mingo was allegedly told he would not be released unless he cooperated.
6. Health concerns ignored — Despite being unwell, Mingo was still pressured to participate in the interview.

Hughes further requested that the prosecution confirm whether any formal application had been made to extend Mingo’s detention beyond the legal 72-hour limit.

The court also viewed video footage of the police interview led by Caesar. During the recording, Attorney Darren Wade attempted to advise Mingo to remain silent. Still, Caesar cautioned that he was present only as an observer and warned that interruptions could lead to removal. Wade later had to leave for another court matter, and the interview reportedly continued in his absence.

Under cross-examination, Detective Harvey confirmed witnessing Wade being restricted and acknowledged he was unaware of any law allowing police to prevent an attorney from advising their client.

The matter is set to continue on October 27, when Assistant Superintendent Caesar is expected to take the stand.