7 News Belize

Matura Shepherd The Attorney Called Before Court
posted (May 27, 2015)

Audrey Matura – Shepherd… as you saw in our last segment, she's one of the most vocal labor leaders, and as an attorney, she's never the type to shy from an interview. But, she did today, after it appears that one of her interviews granted to the press has gotten her in trouble with the Supreme Court, so much so, that she is being cited for contempt, a very serious offence before the court, one which can even carry a jail sentence.

We've been following this story in court all of today, and we've even approached Matura-Shepherd herself for information. But she declined.

What we've learned so far is that the offending public comment which the court takes issue with dates back to February when she was representing the grassroots organisation, BGYEA in mediation sessions. BGYEA and its leader, Nigel Pettillo – you will remember – were being sued by the Government of Belize over the road reserve that they wanted to develop by planting corn.

The Government disagreed, and in a protracted legal battle, it was finally coming to a resolution – or so we thought. Matura-Shepherd gave media interviews in which she disclosed the terms of the settlement, which was arrived at through mediation. Our information says that she ought not to have done that, because apparently, there was a gag order on the proceedings.

We've not confirmed if it is Justice Courtney Abel or the Government Attorney, is pressing the issue, but we understand that Matura-Shepherd has been notified that she is being cited for contempt. She will have an opportunity to explain herself and make representation. That was to have happened today, but it had to be adjourned until a later date in June. Matura-Shepherd told us that when this issue does have its day in court, we'll have to speak to her lawyer, not her.

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