Gov't legal aid for soldiers to be charged in Clarke's murder

THE THREE Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) soldiers who have been ordered charged for the murder of businessman Keith Clarke by the director of public prosecutions (DPP) will have the benefit of government-paid defence attorneys.

"We always provide legal advice. Like every citizen of Jamaica, the soldiers are entitled to legal representation and we will take every step to ensure they get legal representation," acting Chief of Defence Staff Brigadier Rocky Meade said.

On Tuesday, DPP Paula Llewellyn ruled that the three members of the Jamaica Defence Force be charged with Clarke's murder.

The soldiers are Greg Tingling and Odel Buckley, both lance corporals; and Private Arnold Henry.

Morale intact

Meade, asked about the morale of members of the JDF, said he was not aware they have been adversely shaken up by the ruling of the DPP.

"All our soldiers are professional in what they do and we also know that if persons deviate from any procedures that we have, then there are consequences. There is no problem with the morale as far as I am aware; they know that there is a process to follow and that is a part of the process," Meade said.

Commissioner of Police Owen Ellington on Wednesday said the instructions of the DPP to charge the men would be carried out with dispatch.

"We are in discussion with the JDF to ensure the earliest appearance of the military persons in court," Ellington told journalists.

However, up to late yesterday, the Constabulary Communication Network said the men had not yet been charged.

Meade said the soldiers are being held in confinement and that the JDF was cooperating with the police to ensure that the instructions of the DPP are carried out.