This afternoon, the Superior Court issued a verdict in the appeal case of Alvin Howell. It is understood that the Court finds Howell guilty and has upheld the sentence which Howell had appealed. Howell disagrees and is appealing the Court’s decision.
REJECTION OF PLEA TO DECLARE PROSECUTOR GENERAL INADMISSIBLE The verdict was delivered via video conference. The Court was in the courtroom in Curaçao along with defense attorney Mr. Herrera, while Alvin Howell was present in the courtroom in Aruba. The Court stated it had reviewed all criticisms from Mr. Herrera regarding the manner in which the investigation was conducted. The attorney had asked the Court to declare the Prosecutor General (PG) inadmissible and to acquit Howell. The Court’s decision is to reject this defense, finding that the investigation was carried out correctly.
COURT CONVICTS HOWELL The Court stated it finds Howell guilty and confirms the sentence he appealed. Regarding the punishment, the Court noted that this case has been ongoing for 3 years. Therefore, it decided to reduce the sentence from 24 months to 23 months of imprisonment, of which 6 months are suspended with a 3-year probation period. The Court further stated that the fine of 35,000 florins stands, and the 15,000 florins already confiscated will remain confiscated.
HOWELL APPEALS After the Court’s verdict, Howell indicated that he had consulted with his attorney, Mr. Herrera, and it was decided to appeal the sentence. Now, the Court of Cassation in the Netherlands will evaluate the case.