The Magistrate’s Court has dismissed the cannabis cultivation case against Albert Akel “DeeJay Alfie” Raffoul due to prosecution delays. Raffoul was originally arrested and charged on August 8, 2022, for cultivating 41 cannabis plants at Gommier Stewart Estate. He pleaded not guilty and was granted bail of $20,000.
Defense lawyer Kondwani Williams criticized the prosecution for failing to commence the trial despite multiple court appearances by Raffoul. Williams argued that the delay was unfair to his client and requested the court to dismiss the matter for want of prosecution.
“The system is clogged, and the prosecution needs to get organized,” Williams said, emphasizing that while the charges are serious, they could be reinstated if necessary.
Sergeant Augustine, representing the prosecution, explained that partial disclosure had been provided and that the case was serious despite being tried summarily. He attributed the delay to the investigating officer’s leave and subsequent transfer, which hindered the timely collection of the case file. Augustine appealed to the court not to dismiss the case.
The Magistrate, however, expressed frustration with the prosecution’s lack of progress. She noted that the case had last been heard in February 2024, at which point she had granted a final adjournment with instructions for the prosecution to prepare their case. “It’s now June, and nothing has been done. This was the final adjournment. I am tired of speaking. This matter is dismissed for want of prosecution,” she declared.
The decision highlights the importance of timely case management within the legal system. The dismissal underscores the need for the prosecution to be adequately prepared and organized to proceed with cases, particularly those of significant public interest.
As a result of the dismissal, Raffoul is no longer facing legal proceedings for the cannabis cultivation charges, marking a notable conclusion to his case.
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