The High Court trial for the 2013 murder of former footballer Jamal Fernandes came to an unexpected end last Friday when the accused Kurt Clarke pleaded guilty to the crime.
According to the evidence presented during the trial, the crime had taken place on September 4, 2013, when Fernandes, called “Gaga,” of Lot 14 West La Penitence Housing Scheme, was fatally stabbed following an argument that had ensued after he allegedly used a gay slur against Clarke.
The scuffle was said to have ensued in front of the Baroombar strip club after Clarke, a taxi driver, had passed and cat-called at one of Fernandes’ female companions.
The man’s trial had commenced two Mondays ago before Justice Navindra Singh, who, along with the jury, would have heard the testimonies of over 11 witnesses, including several eyewitnesses to the murder.
In light of Clarke’s decision to change his plea, Justice Singh followed suit with a 14- year prison sentence to be served for the offence committed.
The case was presented by Prosecutors Orinthia Schmidt and Michael Shahoud, while Clarke was represented by attorney Peter Hugh.
