The Belize High Court anticipates a critical procedural development today in the sexual assault case against prominent attorney Orson ‘OJ’ Elrington. Justice Nigel Pilgrim has mandated that by midday, Director of Public Prosecutions Cheryl-Lyn Vidal must formally submit the virtual complainant’s position regarding conducting trial proceedings in camera—completely closed to public observation.
During Wednesday’s hearing, Justice Pilgrim established that the court requires direct input from the alleged victim before rendering any determination on courtroom access. The judge emphasized that the complainant’s perspective carries equivalent juridical weight to arguments presented by defense counsel advocating for maintaining public access to the proceedings.
Both prosecution and defense teams have already presented their legal submissions—Vidal for the state and Alifa Elrington for the defense. However, Justice Pilgrim suspended further deliberation pending clarification of the complainant’s stance on this consequential procedural matter.
Following the noon filing deadline, defense representatives will have opportunity to formulate their response ahead of the scheduled 3:00 p.m. hearing continuation. This afternoon’s judicial decision will ultimately establish whether one of Belize’s most closely watched legal proceedings will unfold under public scrutiny or behind closed doors. Court reporters will provide comprehensive updates regarding these developments in subsequent news broadcasts.