Mistrial declared in Blake murder case

The murder of Therese Blake Ayuso in October of 2000 was one of the most high profile crimes of the year. But this morning after two witnesses testified at the start of the trial of Ernel Wellcome, Supreme Court Justice Christopher Blackman declared a mistrial and directed that the matter be set aside until the January session. The mistrial was ordered when defence counsel Simeon Sampson challenged the witness’ identification of the accused, saying in the absence of the jury that the same witness was unable to identify Wellcome during the ID parade. Sampson’s concern was also shared by D.P.P. Rory Field, who is representing the crown. It may be recalled that prior to the ID parade Wellcome obtained a razor and shaved his head and eyebrows. Wellcome will remain on remand at Hattieville prison.