Kingston, Jamaica – Dante Brooks, the son of widespread dancehall artiste Mavado, has been freed after the Court docket of Enchantment on Friday overturned his conviction for the 2018 homicide of Lorenzo Thomas. His co-accused, Andre Hines, was additionally launched following the ruling.
Brooks and Hines had been beforehand sentenced to life in jail in 2021 after being discovered responsible of homicide, arson, and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. Their convictions stemmed from the brutal killing of Thomas within the Cassava Piece neighborhood in St. Andrew.
The appellate courtroom’s resolution to overturn their convictions comes after their authorized staff efficiently challenged the ruling, arguing that there have been important weaknesses within the prosecution’s case. Particulars on the courtroom’s reasoning for overturning the decision haven’t but been absolutely disclosed.
Brooks, who was simply 18 years outdated on the time of sentencing, was ordered to serve 22 years earlier than being eligible for parole. Hines was additionally sentenced to life imprisonment with comparable parole circumstances. Their launch marks a major flip in a case that has attracted widespread consideration as a consequence of Mavado’s high-profile standing within the dancehall trade.
Following the ruling, Mavado, whose actual title is David Brooks, has not but issued a public assertion. Nonetheless, followers and supporters have been reacting strongly to the information throughout social media platforms.
The prosecution has not indicated whether or not they’ll search additional authorized motion following the Court docket of Enchantment’s resolution.