Trial Under Way for Man Accused in 2018 Murder of Businessman Jean-Pierre Rhone

Kingston, Jamaica – The trial of 26-year-old Shamar Clarke, who is charged in connection with the 2018 death of businessman Jean-Pierre Rhone, is currently under way in the Home Circuit Court.

Clarke, a former employee of Rhone, is facing charges of murder, larceny, and preventing the lawful burial of a corpse. The case, which began on September 16, is being heard before Justice Carolyn Tie-Powell, who is now summing up the evidence presented during the proceedings.

Prosecutors allege that Clarke strangled Rhone, the general manager of New Home Era and Consulting, on October 17, 2018, at Port Rocky in Port Royal, Kingston.

Rhone was reported missing that same day, and his body was discovered three days later, partially covered under sand. His motor vehicle was also reported missing at the time.

During the trial, Clarke’s defense team — led by attorneys Lynden Wellesley and Althea Freeman — has argued that he acted in self-defence, claiming that Rhone allegedly made sexual advances towards him during what was meant to be a business meeting.

Clarke, who had previously worked for Rhone but was no longer employed at the company when the incident occurred, maintains that the killing was not premeditated.

Justice Tie-Powell is expected to deliver her summing up and instructions to the jury in the coming days, after which a verdict is anticipated