Trial of Cult Murder Suspect Andre Ruddock Delayed Due to Witness Issues

The trial of Andre Ruddock, accused of murdering Taneka Gardner during a ritual at Pathways International Kingdom Restoration Ministries in Montego Bay, has been delayed as prosecutors work to secure witnesses. The trial, which was set to proceed in the Supreme Court’s Home Circuit Division, was postponed after it was revealed that 11 witnesses had not been subpoenaed. The investigating officer handling the case was reportedly tied up in another matter, further delaying progress.

Ruddock, initially opting for a trial by judge alone, has now requested to be tried by both judge and jury. Supreme Court Justice Leighton Pusey expressed frustration over the delays and noted that the case’s high profile could complicate jury selection. The judge ordered prosecutors to secure the witnesses within three weeks and instructed that Ruddock return to court on November 15 for an update on the case.

Ruddock is accused of slitting Gardner’s throat in October 2021 during a bizarre sacrificial ritual orchestrated by controversial pastor Kevin Smith. Smith, who also faced murder charges, died in a car accident while being transported by police just days after the incident. A coroner’s inquest later ruled that Smith caused the crash in a suicide attempt.

As the case drags on, the public remains intensely focused on the outcome due to its unusual circumstances and the involvement of a religious cult leader.

Further developments in this case are expected at the next court hearing.

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