Rasbert Turner, Star Writer
A soldier who allegedly used his helmet to kill a man almost two years ago will return to the St Catherine Circuit Court on September 23.
Charged with murder is Corporal Kevin Gardener, 32, of the Jamaica Defence Force. He is charged with the death of Kevin O’Connor, 24, from Bog Walk, St Catherine.
The matter came up in the St Catherine Circuit Court before Justice Lennox Campbell.
Attorneys-at-law Lancelot Clarke Jr and Vincent Wellesley, who are representing Gardener, said the defence is awaiting documents
“For some time, we have been aware of statements collected from soldiers by Colonel Patrick Cole, and we need it for our defence of the case, ” Wellesley said.
Allegations are that on September 11, 2012, Gardener was part of a police-military patrol. On reaching the bus park in Spanish Town, they observed an angry mob raining blows on O’Connor after he allegedly refused to pay his bus fare.
He was taken to the police post on the compound, during which he was reportedly hit by Gardener with a helmet, and later died from injuries received.
The Independent Commission of Investigations conducted a probe, which resulted in Gardener being charged with murder.
He has made numerous court appearances and has maintained his innocence throughout.
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Soldier accused of killing man with helmet gets new date
