The underage driver who mowed down traffic policeman Simon Schembri in May, has now been charged over a drug possession incident in October, 2017.
Some three months into the compilation of evidence against Liam Debono over the attempted murder of the police officer, the prosecution filed additional charges over the incident.
Describing this move as one that was not “normal” in terms of procedural law, defence lawyer Franco Debono questioned whether any steps had been taken by the prosecution in respect of the earlier episode, before the Simon Schembri incident had taken place.
Facing questions under cross-examination, Inspector Spiridione Zammit confirmed that no charges had been issued since investigations were still ongoing.
“Who had decided to add these charges three months into the compilation of evidence,” Dr Debono pressed, prompting Inspector Zammit to explain that he had been informed by a colleague from the Drug Squad that fresh charges over the drug possession incident were to be added to the charges in the compilation.
“No reason was given. I did not ask anyone about this,” the inspector continued.
The new charges concern an episode dating back to October 30, 2017…
