🔨 McKeeva Bush acquitted in historic rape case

McKeeva Bush, a former premier and current West Bay MP, was found not guilty of rape and sexual assault charges by a jury on Monday. The verdict was delivered after just over an hour of deliberation. Following the announcement, Bush expressed his intention to call for an inquiry into the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the police commissioner, citing what he perceived as persecution against him. 🏛️

The accusation against Bush was made by a local George Town woman, who claimed he sexually assaulted her in a mangrove clearing off the West Bay Road over 20 years ago. The defence highlighted the lack of a specific date for the alleged crimes, which spanned a period of six years according to the indictment, making it impossible for Bush to provide an alibi. The defence also pointed out inconsistencies in the woman's account and the failure of the prosecution to provide witnesses or confirm related events. 🕵️‍♂️

During the trial, Bush's defence counsel, Jerome Lynch KC, argued that the false allegations were the most serious of offences and that Bush was not capable of such actions. Lynch also highlighted the prosecution's failure to provide a specific date for the alleged assault, making it impossible for Bush to refute the allegations with an alibi. The jury was urged to consider these factors in their deliberation, ultimately leading to Bush's acquittal. ⚖️