Attempted Murder Trial Jury Bid Rejected
Jury’s Verdict Stands: Attempted Murder Trial to Proceed
In the heart of Valletta, the bustling Republic Street fell silent today as the Court of Criminal Jurisdiction rejected a defence bid to dissolve the jury in an attempted murder trial. The case, which has gripped Malta’s legal community, involves the shooting of a man outside a popular Paceville nightclub last year.
Defence’s Last-Ditch Effort
The defence team, led by prominent lawyer Dr. Joseph Giglio, argued that the jury had been tainted by pre-trial publicity. They pointed to a Times of Malta article published last week, which they claimed had influenced the jury’s impartiality. However, the court dismissed this argument, stating that the article was a balanced report and did not prejudice the trial.
Dr. Giglio, representing the accused, 28-year-old Maltese national Mario Azzopardi, had requested a mistrial. Azzopardi is accused of attempted murder after allegedly shooting a man outside the popular nightclub, Toro Loco, in the early hours of New Year’s Day last year.
Prosecution’s Stance
Prosecuting counsel, Dr. Maria Grech Ganado, argued that the defence was merely attempting to delay the trial. She pointed out that the defence had had ample opportunity to challenge jurors during the selection process and had not raised any objections at that time.
“The defence is trying to create doubt where there is none,” Dr. Grech Ganado told the court. “The jury has been carefully selected and is capable of making an impartial decision based on the evidence presented in court.”
Trial to Proceed
Justice Dr. Edwina Grima rejected the defence’s application, stating that there was no evidence to suggest that the jury had been influenced by the article or any other external factors. The trial will now proceed as scheduled, with witnesses due to be called next week.
Speaking outside the court, Dr. Giglio declined to comment on the ruling but hinted that his client would be testifying in his own defence. “We respect the court’s decision,” he said, “and we look forward to presenting our case in full.”
The attempted murder trial is one of the most high-profile cases in Malta this year. It has sparked debate about the influence of pre-trial publicity on jury trials and the need for stricter controls on information released to the public before a verdict is reached.
