INNOCENT: MP Kirk Cornish was cleared of all charges

Kirk Cornish appears in court on Thursday. Photo: Chappell Whyms Jr

Author: PAVEL BAILEY

Tribune staff reporter

NORTH Abaco MP Kirk Cornish yesterday expressed relief and gratitude following his acquittal on rape and assault charges, calling it the closing of one of the “more difficult chapters” of his life.

After deliberating for less than two hours, the nine-member jury, which included eight women and one man, unanimously found Cornish not guilty of two counts of rape and one count of assault.

They returned a 6-3 verdict of acquittal on two additional counts of assault and making threats to kill.

After hearing the acquittal, the crowd of supporters erupted in cheers.

Judge Renae McKay, who presided over the three-week trial, thanked the jury for their work and acquitted Cornish of all charges. It was the second jury to consider evidence in the case, after the first jury was dismissed in May after a member reported links to the opposition leader.

After the verdict was announced, Mr. Cornish joyfully embraced family members and supporters. Although he did not speak to the media when he left the court, he did not have a triumphant smile on his face.

In a press statement, Mr. Cornish thanked his legal team and expressed relief at the outcome, while renewing his commitment to the people of North Abaco and expressing appreciation for their steadfast support.

“Today I am fortunate to be able to turn the page to open the most difficult chapter of my life,” he said.

“I want the people of North Abaco to know how much I appreciate your support. Your belief in me, even through these challenges, has been a profound source of strength and I am truly honored by the faith you have shown.”

Cornish also pledged to continue to serve with humility, determination and gratitude, “doing everything in my power to serve our nation and honor the trust you have placed in me.”

The prosecution, led by Timothy Bailey, argued that the complainant had been “intimidated and abused” by Cornish.

However, the defense, which includes Owen Wells, Tai Pinder-Mackey and Linique Murphy Grant, argued there were “inconsistencies” in the case from the start.

During closing arguments, the defense described the complainant as a “liar” and a “woman scorned.”

Wells expressed satisfaction with the verdict, saying the panel was satisfied that the jury carefully considered the evidence and reached a decision.

North Eleuthera MP Sylvanus Petty, a member of the Cornish entourage, said as he left court: “There is no winner in this case; I’m just happy it’s over for both parties.

Progressive Liberal Party leader Fred Mitchell echoed similar sentiments, adding: “We simply thank the jury for their work and due diligence in reviewing the evidence and establishing the facts. We are also grateful to the legal team led by Ms Tai Pinder for representing the member.”