Entertainer Machel Montano was not called to the witness stand yesterday to answer three assault charges brought against him almost four years ago. Montano, 35, Joel "Zan" Fezeck, songwriter/producer Kernel Roberts-son of the late calypsonian Lord Kitchener and Rodney "Benjai" Le Blanc are before Port-of-Spain magistrate Maureen Baboolal–Gafoor in the Fifth Court charged with assaulting Russell Pollonais.
Montano, Fezeck and Roberts are charged also with assaulting Brandis Brown. Montano faces other charges of assaulting Jenelle Lee Chee, and using obscene language. The allegations stem from a fracas at the Zen nightclub on Keate Street in Port-of-Spain on April 26, 2007. Montano's attorney Dana Seetahal SC, however, said she was not prepared to proceed because of her involvement in a capital matter at the High Court.
Baboolal–Gafoor alerted the court that the matter has been before her since August 29 2008. "It is now 2011 and this court is very anxious to complete the matter," she said. She added that the court had been very open and understanding but it had been "an awfully long time." Seetahal said she may not be ready to proceed next week Monday, but would try. State prosecutor George Busby said he had asked to be excused from his matters in the High Court and was ready to proceed yesterday.
Baboolal–Gafoor said the case had to be determined. Roberts is represented by Keith Scotland while Larry Williams defends Fezeck. John Heath, Shalini Khan and Rajiv Persad represent Le Blanc. The matter was adjourned to January 28 and Montano is expected to testify then.