Murder accused claims self-defence

Calvin Osbort Osbourne, who is on trial for the murder of his mother’s boyfriend more than four years ago, on Monday told a jury that he acted in self-defence.

“My actions were not born of anger or aggression, but from a case of immediate fear for my life. I truly believed that my safety and my mother’s safety were in jeopardy,” the 26-year-old of Lower Bridge Gap, Cave Hill, St Michael said in an unsworn statement from the dock of the No. 4 Supreme Court.

Osbourne is charged with the October 18, 2020 murder of 44-year-old Gregory Adams.

The accused said, “I have never been in trouble with the law, and I do not consider myself a threat to society. I believe in peace, responsibility and protecting the people I love. I want to express my deepest sorrow for the pain and the stress caused by this situation…. I did everything in my power to avoid confrontation and only acted when I felt there was no other option. I used only as much strength as was necessary to stop the threat.”

He told the court that he immediately sought help for Adams as soon as he felt that he and his mother were safe.

“I never intended to hurt anyone, especially a family member. The situation escalated quickly and unexpectedly,” Osbourne told the court.

Commenting on his interaction with police, he stated, “I was presented with information that was not entirely accurate. I felt pressured to comply and explain evidence to them. In hindsight, I realise that my decision was made without a full understanding of the facts. I am not perfect, but I am a man who loves his family…. I respectfully ask for understanding and fairness in how my actions are judged.”

Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Alliston Seale SC and defence attorney Sian Lange will give their closing arguments on Wednesday.

Madam Justice Laurie-Anne Smith-Bovell is presiding.