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Khanice Jackson murder accused in talks for guilty plea

Published:Saturday | January 28, 2023 | 1:23 AMAndre Williams/Staff Reporter

An attorney representing Robert Fowler, the St Catherine mechanic accused of killing 20-year-old accounting clerk Khanice Jackson in March 2021, has said discussions have started with the prosecution in order to forgo a trial.

Lynden Wellesley, who is one of two attorneys representing the accused, told The Gleaner that he hopes those talks will conclude before Fowler’s next court appearance.

On Friday, the matter was adjourned until March 8 and Fowler, who appeared remotely, was further remanded by Justice Vinette Graham Allen.

When the matter was called up during plea and case management in the Home Circuit Court on Friday, Justice Graham Allen, who had requested Fowler’s medical journal on Monday, was able to peruse the document.

Wellesley told The Gleaner that he would like to get some conclusion on his client’s health condition on the next court date.

“He had some medical issues, which the judge has ironed out, but we would like to get some conclusion on the matter on the next [court] date but, of course, that depends on my client,” Wellesley said.

Fowler reportedly did a series of blood tests on November 16 at the Spanish Town Hospital.

On October 5, 2022, Wellesley had informed the judge that Fowler’s medical condition was worsening, and Justice Graham Allen placed the murder proceedings on hold to address his health issues.

Jackson, who resided in Independence City in Portmore, St Catherine, was found dead on March 26, 2021, two days after she had been reported missing.

Her decomposing body was found in an open lot near the Portmore Fishing Village.

Fowler, who would occasionally transport her to work, was taken into custody and charged after he reportedly confessed to killing her.

The police have theorised that Fowler, who is a mechanic, had lured the woman to his home under the guise that he had left one of his tools.

While there, an argument reportedly developed between them and Fowler allegedly used a rope to strangle Jackson.

A handbag believed to be Jackson’s and her bank cards were among items reportedly found at Fowler’s home.

According to the police, Jackson and Fowler shared a platonic relationship.

The accused is also represented by Althea Freeman.

andre.williams@gleanerjm.com