In a landmark verdict, Levon Julien, a 35-year-old man who spent 14 years awaiting trial, was acquitted of two counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor. The jury delivered an eight-to-one not-guilty verdict on October 18 at the O’Meara Judicial Centre in Arima, presided over by Justice Kathy Ann Waterman-Latchoo. The charges stemmed from allegations that Julien engaged in sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl at two locations in December 2011 and January 2012. The prosecution, led by state counsel Shervone Noriega and Samantha Marajh, claimed the incidents occurred at a neighbor’s home and later at Julien’s residence in Las Alturas, Morvant. However, the neighbor was never called as a witness. Julien’s defense attorneys, Jerry Boyer and Robert Doodnath, challenged the alleged victim’s credibility during cross-examination, prompting her to admit that the December 2011 incident never occurred. Additionally, the investigating officer acknowledged that her probe was ‘less than thorough.’ After more than three hours of deliberation, the jury cleared Julien of both charges. Justice Waterman-Latchoo ordered his immediate release, ending a 14-year ordeal that left Julien struggling to find employment and living under public suspicion. Julien expressed relief, stating that the verdict restores his freedom and reputation.