The Tribune

BY DENISE MAYCOCK

Tribune Freeport Reporter

dmaycock@tribunemedia.net

FREEPORT – William Leslie Forbes, 37, was convicted of manslaughter in the Supreme Court yesterday.

Forbes was on trial for the murder of his girlfriend, 30-year-old Natasha Mondelus of Hanna Hill, Eight Mile Rock.

A jury of eight men and four women returned an 11-1 not guilty verdict on the charge of murder at around 3.30pm, instead finding the accused guilty of manslaughter by a vote of 11-1.

The matter opened on Monday before Justice Hartman Longley. Erica Kemp of the Attorney General’s Office appeared on behalf of the Crown. Brian Hanna represented Forbes.

Mondelus was found dead at her apartment on January 9, 2011. Her throat had been slit with a knife.

According to the evidence, the couple had been arguing.

Mr Hanna asked the court to suspend sentencing so a probation report on his client could be prepared, but the prosecution objected.

Mrs Kemp said this would be a waste of the time due to Forbes’ prior record, which was presented to the court.

The defence attorney admitted that he was aware of his client’s antecedents, and said he would need some time to gather additional information before he addresses the court.

Senior Justice Hartman Longley set sentencing for August 9.

During an interview with reporters outside the courthouse, Mr Hanna said his client intends to appeal.

“He indicated that it was an accident. He is adamant that he will exercise his right to appeal,” he said.