Thirteen months after the alleged beating death of 42-year-old Kenton Phillip at the Richmond Hill Prison, a coroner’s jury was empaneled last Thursday to begin the inquest at the St. George’s No.1 Magistrate’s Court.
Chief Magistrate Francine Foster is serving as the Coroner in these proceedings.
The inquest aims to establish the cause of Phillip’s death through a fact-finding process, and not to attribute blame.
THE NEW TODAY understands that at least five witnesses will be called to testify, and the Coroner is expected to start taking evidence on August 1.
At the time of his death in March 2023, Phillip was serving a life sentence for capital murder, after being convicted along with Sheldon Bain, Elvon Barry, and Zoyd Clement for the October 8, 2002 shooting death of trafficker Omelia Roberts during a robbery.
Phillip’s death has raised significant concerns about the conditions and safety within the Prison, with calls for a full-fledged investigation.
Prison Commissioner Rupert Neckles, who has since refuted the claims that Phillip was beaten to death, had previously disclosed the Phillip was hospitalised prior to his death.
An autopsy was conducted, however, the results of the report have not been disclosed in the public domain.
Attorney Peter David is seeking the interest of Phillip’s family, who are seeking answers in relation to his questionable and untimely demise.
The community, along with Phillip’s family, awaits the findings with keen interest, hoping for clarity and justice.