Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Paula Llewellyn says a recent jury conviction in lottery scamming and money laundering sends a strong message to criminals that there is a critical mass of civic-minded Jamaicans determined to stand for justice.
A seven-member jury consisting of five women deliberated for 30 minutes before concluding that Kemar Townsend was guilty in the St Catherine Circuit Court.
Townsend was charged with conspiracy to obtain money by false pretence, engaging in a transaction involving criminal property, and possession of criminal property.
Llewellyn said that the historic twinning – jury trial conviction of lottery scamming and proceeds of crime – was against the backdrop of a solid case in which prosecutors had confidence of a favourable outcome.
“We have never used a jury to try these cases before, and it was good work in terms of investigation by the FID, and then our overseas partners also assisted in terms of facilitating a video link of the American complainant,” Llewellyn told The Gleaner on Tuesday, referring to the Financial Investigations Division, as well as the Nebraska Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Llewellyn saluted the jurors for their studious tenacity in following the trial
“What is important is the very members. It’s not a judge. Formerly, usually we would try it or money laundering before a judge alone. But jurors, men and women of the community, participated at this level and were prepared to say you are guilty,” the DPP said.
She believes the conviction will send a strong message to lottery scammers as the criminal scheme spread widely across the island.
The trial was presided over by Justice Bertram Morrison.
The complainant, a 72-year-old United States citizen, testified that she received several telephone calls from at least two persons informing her that she had won a $632-million lottery, three motor vehicles, and US$297,000 in refunds.
She further testified that she was instructed by one of the callers that the funds were housed in Jamaica, and that she had to remit money to the island to claim her prizes.
The complainant, on three separate occasions, sent money to a local bank account held by Kemar Townsend.
On December 14, 2017, the complainant sent US$9,000 and on December 21, 2017, US$10,000. On January 3, 2018, US$25,000 was sent to the accused’s local bank account.
Townsend’s attorney, Davion Vassell, told The Gleaner that he was displeased with the findings of the jury. His client is reportedly considering his options.
Townsend is to be sentenced on June 17.
In a social-media post, the Jamaica Constabulary Force said criminals commit illegal acts in plain sight of others and brazenly sang about their exploits.
That comment appeared to reference a trending song titled Bank, performed by dancehall artiste Malie.
The music video has racked up over a million views since it was released a month ago.
“Yes, Miss Jen. We’ve seen the videos, too. We’re on it,” the police said, urging the public to report offenders to Crime Stop at 311, or the NIB tip line at 811.