High Court Awaits Key Filing in Orson Elrington Rape Case

The High Court is expecting a pivotal update today in the rape case involving attorney Orson OJ Elrington, as the issue of whether the trial should be held behind closed doors hangs in the balance.

By noon, Director of Public Prosecutions Cheryl-Lyn Vidal is required to file a statement outlining the virtual complainant’s position on whether proceedings should be conducted in camera, meaning away from public view.

Justice Nigel Pilgrim made it clear on Wednesday that before he can rule on the matter, the court must formally hear from the complainant. He said that the individual at the centre of the case has a voice that carries equal weight to the defence’s argument for keeping the trial open to the public.

Both sides have already presented submissions, Vidal for the prosecution and Alifa Elrington for the defense, but the judge said the court cannot move forward without clarity on the complainant’s stance.

Once that position is placed on the record, the defense will have the opportunity to respond when the matter resumes at 3:00 p.m. this afternoon.

The court’s decision could determine whether the proceedings unfold in public view or behind closed doors. We will be in the courtroom and will bring you the latest developments in tonight’s newscast.