The trial of a man accused of a 2011 murder was halted yesterday after a judge found that delays had made continuation unfeasible.

Devon Hewey had denied allegations that he murdered 22-year-old Randy Robinson, who was fatally shot while walking along Border Lane North on the evening of March 31, 2011.

While multiple witnesses had given evidence since the trial began in mid-May, Puisne Judge Alan Richards noted that the case had suffered multiple delays.

He said: “Unfortunately, the conclusion that I have come to this morning is that we cannot realistically complete this trial within the time frame that will enable us to retain sufficient of your numbers in order for you to properly return a verdict.”

Mr Justice Richards said that both the defence and the prosecution had worked hard to push the matter forward, but challenges can arise when dealing with a case of “some considerable vintage”.

He added that the situation was not a “happy outcome” or one that any of the parties were satisfied with, but it was “unfortunately where we are”.

Mr Justice Richards discharged the jury, thanking them for their time, and released Mr Hewey on bail until July 29, when the matter is expected to return to the Supreme Court to be mentioned.

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