Police to get legal advice on Hannah Mathura case

Police are hoping to approach the Director of Public Prosecutions Roger Gaspard, SC, today for legal advice or instructions on how to proceed against an elderly couple in connection with the death of Hannah Mathura.

Mathura’s skeletal remains were discovered in the backyard of her home in March.

In April, DNA results came in which confirmed that the remains were indeed that of the missing 18-year-old girl.

Investigators told Loop News that they were crafting a meticulous case in this matter to ensure that all loose ends were tied up before approaching the DPP’s office for instructions on how to proceed against the couple.

Throughout the process, police said, they have been receiving legal advice.

This week they submitted the file to the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for consultation, and are hopeful that that the matter would be brought to a close soon – with some hoping as early as today.

On March 12, officers of the North Central Division swooped down on the home after being informed of several illegal activities that allegedly took place at the premises.

The male suspect, on seeing the police, fled the scene in a red Kia sedan.

After securing the occupants of the home and taking them for medical treatment, police were informed that the body of an 18-year-old who was never reported missing was buried in the backyard.

Officers excavated a 15 by 20 foot area in the backyard and found skeletal remains, believed to be that of Hannah Mathura, who was last seen alive in July 2017.

A post-mortem performed the following day at the Forensic Science Center in St James revealed that there were holes in the skull, which appeared to be consistent with gunshot injuries.

However, DNA testing was ordered to confirm if the body was indeed that of the 18-year-old, as there were certain inconsistencies with the findings.

Samples were taken from both parents and submitted for testing.

The couple, a 66-year-old man and a 62-year-old woman, was arrested on March 13.

Their seven children aided police with inquiries and have given statements.

On March 19, officials from the Homicide Bureau approached the Director of Public Prosecutions Roger Gaspard SC.

Gaspard SC perused the files presented to him for just over two hours before instructing that the couple be released, as it was his view that further evidence was needed to form a prima facie case.

Pending the advice given, the couple may be re-arrested.

More on this as it becomes available.