Man Wrongfully Detained for Eight Years Files Multimillion-Dollar Lawsuit Against Government

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Nicholas Gordon, a 31-year-old environmental warden from Kingston, has filed a lawsuit against the Jamaican Government, seeking millions in damages after spending eight years in custody awaiting trial for a murder he did not commit. Gordon was freed in June 2024 after the case against him collapsed in the Home Circuit Court.

The lawsuit, filed on November 14, names Police Corporal Ozel Stewart and the Attorney General as defendants. Gordon is claiming damages for false imprisonment, malicious prosecution, and the agony, trauma, and financial losses he endured throughout the ordeal.

Gordon was arrested in 2016 in connection with the murder of Michael Britton, also known as “Stay Alive” or “Bling Bigs,” of Jones Town, Kingston. Prosecutors alleged that Britton had given a dying declaration to his aunt while being taken to the hospital, identifying Gordon as the shooter.

However, during cross-examination by Gordon’s attorney, Anthony Williams, the prosecution’s main witness admitted that she had not mentioned any dying declaration in her initial statement to police. Williams revealed that this crucial first statement was only provided to the defense after the prosecution had already closed its case.

Justice Leighton Pusey ultimately upheld a no-case submission by Williams and co-counsel Shadae Bailey, citing contradictory evidence. Gordon was acquitted and released after spending eight years in custody under deplorable conditions at multiple police station lockups.

The lawsuit outlines Gordon’s claims of unlawful arrest, lack of proper investigation, and malicious prosecution by Corporal Stewart. It also details the inhumane conditions he endured while in custody. Gordon is seeking special damages of $4.8 million for lost earnings and legal expenses, along with additional damages for the emotional, psychological, and reputational harm caused by the ordeal.

Williams criticized the prosecution’s handling of the case, particularly the late disclosure of critical evidence. “Where was this first statement during the eight years Gordon spent behind bars?” he asked. He explained that the truth only came to light when he questioned the witness during cross-examination about the number of statements she had given to police.

Gordon’s legal team argues that the wrongful imprisonment and prosecution reflect systemic issues in the justice system, including inadequate investigations and failure to protect defendants’ rights. “No one should have to endure what Mr. Gordon endured,” Williams said.