Another delay | Tambu Frett’s matter escalates to a special hearing

The criminal matters against BVIslander Tambu Frett have hit another delay and will now be heading to a Newton hearing.

Effectively, a Newton hearing is a legal procedure whereby a judge tries to ascertain which of the two sides offering conflicting evidence to the court is truthful.

Frett, who pleaded guilty to smuggling a man from the US Virgin Islands, Illegal Entry and Breach of Curfew – did not accept the Crown’s allegation that he was part of a larger smuggling operation.

Today, Friday, May 1 would have been the third adjournment of his sentencing hearing before Senior Magistrate Tamia Richards.

His matter will be next heard on May 7 in a Newton hearing.

My client did it occasionally

Defence attorney, Leroy Jones told the court that his client had assisted persons in the past between the two neighbouring territories, but it is because of his ‘soft heart’.

Jones said his client did not receive compensation for his deeds.

He also argued that bringing up new evidence before sentencing is not the appropriate time to do so.

However, Acting Director of the Public Prosecutions Tiffany Scatliffe-Esprit disagreed and advocated for the Newton hearing.

The Crown’s arguement is that some voice notes and other communication between Frett and other persons painted a different picture from what he is claiming.