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The High Court has upheld a no case submission in the murder trial of Kasroy Simon, effectively dismissing all charges against him.
The ruling, marks a decisive victory for Simon who was on trial for the murder of Nicoma McFarlene whose killing the prosecution believes was staged by Simon to look like a suicide.
Simon’s lawyer Andrew O’Kola successfully argued that the prosecution had failed to present sufficient evidence linking Simon to the crime
“We maintained from the outset that the prosecution failed to provide any direct or substantial circumstantial evidence linking our client to the alleged crime,” said O’Kola.
He added, “The High Court’s decision highlights the fundamental principle that individuals should only face charges when there is substantial evidence against them and that suspicions, speculations and conjectures, without more, are not evidence of guilt.”
O’Kola emphasized the impact of the case on Simon and his family, stating, “The charges have caused immense stress and uncertainty for Mr. Simon and his loved ones. We are relieved and gratified that the High Court saw fit to dismiss the case at this stage, recognizing the lack of evidence to support the allegations.”
The ruling has been described as a “landmark decision” that “reinforces the presumption of innocence and ensures that individuals are not wrongfully accused based on insufficient evidence.”
While celebrating the legal victory, O’Kola also addressed the tragedy at the heart of the case. “We wish to extend our deepest condolences to the family of Nicoma McFarlane. The pain and loss they have endured are unimaginable, and we hope that the true perpetrator of this tragic crime is brought to justice.”
The case has drawn attention to the standards of evidence required in criminal prosecutions and the role of the judiciary in safeguarding individual rights. As O’Kola noted, “The High Court’s thorough examination of the case has once again demonstrated the integrity and fairness of our judicial system.”
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