The January sessions of the Essequibo Criminal Assizes commenced at the Suddie High Court on Tuesday.
But even before the first sitting there was the ceremonial opening which saw Justice Franklin Holder, the presiding Judge, taking the salute from “D” Division Commander, Dale Alves, during the parade on the lawns of the Richard Fikhal Training College at Suddie, Essequibo.
Twenty-four cases are listed for the duration of the session, which include 11 murders, three manslaughter, four rape, three carnal knowledge, two attempted murders, and one indecent assault charge.
Tuesday’s session commenced with the murder trial of Julius Joseph.