Jolyan Silvera Makes First Appearance in Court; Maintains Innocence, Media and Family Barred from the Hearing – Watch Videos
Thursday, January 25, 2024, 5:10 PM GMT-5
Accused murderer Jolyan Silvera made his first appearance in court on Thursday. While members of the media were able to capture Silvera’s entrance as they gathered outside, the press was not permitted to enter the hearing.
Following the death of his wife, Melissa Silvera, on November 10, 2023, Silvera was charged with her murder last week. Earlier today, the former Member of Parliament made his first appearance in the Home Circuit Court, with footage taken from outside the court showing Silvera’s entrance with other detainees.
Silvera was dressed in a blue shirt and black pants, his head covered with a kerchief, and his hands handcuffed as he descended the police truck. He was reportedly dishevelled as he went into the courtroom and in need of a shave.
According to reports, the presiding judge, Justice Vinette Graham Allen, expressed that she must exercise “discretion” in every case. She also stated that, as today’s hearing was only a preliminary one, the media would not be allowed to cover it.
In addition to the media, family members were also barred from the court hearing. The Director of Public Prosecutions, DPP Paula Llewellyn, was reportedly shocked by the judge’s announcement.
Following the hearing, Silvera’s attorney, King’s Counsel Peter Champagnie, shared with the press that his client is scheduled to return to court on February 8. Champagnie further disclosed that Silvera is maintaining his innocence and is very apprehensive and concerned about what has happened.
Champagnie also critiqued the ongoing circulation of rumours and assumptions on social media. Highlighting that there were children involved, the attorney cautioned against negative discourse online.
Watch the video below.
