A Dwelling Circuit Courtroom choose has decided that the prosecution has established ample proof for Constable Noel Maitland to be known as upon to defend himself towards prices arising from the disappearance and dying of his former girlfriend, Donna-Lee Donaldson.
Justice Leighton Pusey delivered the ruling on Friday, concluding that Maitland should reply allegations of homicide and stopping the lawful burial of a physique. The choice adopted oral arguments offered by each the prosecution and defence on Thursday, after written submissions have been filed on the shut of the Crown’s case.
Maitland is scheduled to start presenting his defence on Monday.
Donaldson, a 24-year-old entrepreneur, was reported lacking on July 13, 2022. Maitland was later arrested and formally charged in connection along with her disappearance.
The trial, which commenced in Could 2025, is being heard earlier than a seven-member jury. Over the course of the prosecution’s case, 36 witnesses have been known as to provide proof.
Amongst them was Donaldson’s mom, who advised the courtroom that her daughter was final seen alive on July 11, 2022, when Maitland collected her from her St Andrew dwelling. She additionally testified that she spoke along with her daughter the next morning, July 12.
In an announcement given to police on July 15, 2022, Maitland mentioned Donaldson left his residence at Chelsea Manor in St Andrew after an argument earlier that day. He claimed the dispute stemmed from {a photograph} of his little one’s mom and his indication that he meant to finish the connection. Maitland advised investigators that his subsequent makes an attempt to contact Donaldson by cellphone have been unsuccessful.
The prosecution additionally offered forensic proof, together with testimony from a authorities analyst who said that blood traces discovered on objects recovered from Maitland’s New Kingston residence have been matched to Donaldson’s DNA.
