Delays in Prosecution Push Back Start of Triple Murder Trial for Elmer Nah

There is still no start date for the substantive trial of accused triple murderer Elmer Nah.  The delay in providing a date has to do with the prosecution failing to provide key information to the defence. Nah’s case was called up for housekeeping matters in the Belize High Court today before Justice Nigel Pilgrim. Nah appeared virtually for the session, as did Special Prosecutor, Terrence Williams. Justice Pilgrim ordered both parties to file their applications by November 1. However, the prosecution has failed to meet this deadline, prompting Smith to raise concerns about numerous unfulfilled requests for evidence. This includes access to Nah’s cellphone, a flashlight, a headlight, an SD card, body cam footage, and video recordings allegedly provided by the U.S. Embassy as they were sent for enhancement. When questioned by the judge, Prosecutor Williams indicated that the requested items are still being reviewed, citing delays in receiving instructions from the police about what is currently in police custody. He added that the prosecution is awaiting DNA results for a trouser linked to the case and is still assessing multiple video files that require specific softwares to open. Nah’s attorney, Godfrey Smith, who appeared in person says that he is looking forward to the prosecution’s submission. 

To push the case forward, Justice Pilgrim issued a new court order mandating that all requested items be made accessible to the defense by November 29. The case is scheduled to resume on December 16 for a Case Management Conference, with the judge expressing hope that a trial date can soon be set.