By Latrishka Thomas
The trial of police officer Karim Warner concluded on Saturday with final-witness testimony.
Warner is accused of firing multiple shots at an occupied vehicle just over two years ago.
The case stems from a December 3, 2023 incident when Warner allegedly fired 12 shots at a white Toyota Mark X with two occupants near Emerald Cove Resort in Willikies.
According to reports, the incident originated from a dispute over a leased vehicle which Warner allegedly attempted to reclaim. However, the male occupant refused to return it.
Evidence collected at the scene reportedly included bullet holes near one of a rear door handle and spent shell casings around the vehicle.
Warner was initially charged with discharging a firearm in a public place and assaulting both occupants, to which he pleaded not guilty. During last month’s proceedings before Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel, the prosecution withdrew the assault charges.
While the male occupant of the vehicle did not appear for the trial and submitted a statement of his unwillingness to proceed, the court heard testimony from four witnesses including the female complainant, a taxi driver, and two police officers.
The trial continued over the weekend with four additional witnesses before the prosecution closed its case. The defence then indicated its intent to file a no-case submission.
The defence was given 21 days to provide the reasons why it believes the case should be dismissed, after which the prosecution will have 21 days to respond.
Warner is scheduled to return to court on May 13 for the Magistrate’s ruling on the submission.
