Dominica’s National Security Minister, Rayburn Blackmoore, has publicly criticized the High Court’s decision to grant bail to U.S. citizen Jonathan Lehrer, accused in the double murder of Canadian philanthropist Daniel Langlois and his partner, Dominique Marchand. Lehrer’s bail, set at EC$1 million, has sparked widespread debate, with Blackmoore asserting that the State remains steadfast in opposing the court’s ruling.
“Let me begin by making it fundamentally clear that the State takes this bail application very seriously and is totally opposed to the granting of bail,” Blackmoore stated. He highlighted the brutality of the crime and the public’s expectations for justice. “While I fully appreciate the independence of the court and embrace the principle that within our society, one is presumed innocent until proven guilty, certain crimes require the utmost seriousness from the courts.”
Lehrer, along with co-accused Robert Snyder Jr., was charged in December 2023 for the murders of Langlois and Marchand. The couple, who owned Coulibri Ridge and Eco Resort in southern Dominica, were found incinerated in a car near Gallion after being reported missing. Investigations pointed to a longstanding property dispute between Langlois and Lehrer over road access, which escalated before the murders.
Blackmoore emphasized the importance of the public interest in legal decisions. “The public interest must always be preserved and protected by the court,” he noted. He also outlined the Bail Act’s criteria for granting bail, including the seriousness of the crime, the accused’s potential flight risk, and the public’s trust in the justice system.
Praising the police for their swift and professional investigation, the Minister assured citizens that the State remains committed to pursuing justice. “The State has retained one of the best senior counsels in criminal law to assist in this matter,” he said. “We will continue to provide all necessary resources to ensure justice is not only seen but done.”
This case, which has drawn significant local and international attention, will proceed to trial on December 10, 2024. The State has vowed to uphold its commitment to ensuring justice for Langlois and Marchand.
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