NOT GUILTY: MP Kirk Cornish is acquitted of all charges

Kirk Cornish outside court Thursday. Photo: Chappell Whyms Jr

By PAVEL BAILEY

Tribune staff reporter

NORTH Abaco MP Kirk Cornish yesterday expressed relief and gratitude after being acquitted of rape and sexual assault, calling it the end of one of the “hardest chapters” of his life.

After deliberating for less than two hours, a nine-member jury of eight women and one man unanimously found Mr Cornish not guilty of two charges of rape and one charge of sexual assault.

They returned a 6-3 not guilty verdict on two additional charges of assault and death threats.

Upon hearing the acquittal, a crowd of supporters erupted in cheers.

Judge Renae McKay, who presided over the three-week trial, thanked the jury for their service and acquitted Cornish of all charges. This was the second jury to hear evidence in the case, after the first jury was dismissed in May after one member reportedly had ties to the Leader of the Opposition.

After the verdict, Mr Cornish cheerfully hugged family members and supporters. Although he did not speak to the media as he left the court, a triumphant smile remained on his face.

In a press statement, Mr Cornish thanked his legal team and expressed his relief at the outcome, while also renewing his commitment to the people of North Abaco and recognizing their steadfast support.

“Today I am blessed to turn the page on what has been the most difficult chapter of my life,” he said.

“To the people of North Abaco, I want you to know how deeply I appreciate your support. Your faith in me, even in the face of these challenges, has been a profound source of strength, and I am truly humbled by the faith you have shown.”

Mr. Cornish also pledged to continue to serve with humility, determination and gratitude, “doing all I can to serve our nation and honor the trust you have placed in me.”

The prosecution, led by Timothy Bailey, alleged that the complainant had been “bullied and abused” by Cornish.

However, the defense team, made up of Owen Wells, Tai Pinder-Mackey and Linique Murphy Grant, argued that the case was marked by ‘inconsistencies’ from the start.

During closing arguments, the defense characterized the plaintiff as a “liar” and a “woman scorned.”

Mr Wells expressed his satisfaction with the verdict and said the team was pleased that the jurors had carefully considered the evidence and reached a decision.

North Eleuthera MP Sylvanus Petty, part of Cornish’s entourage as he left court, said: “There is no winner here; I’m just glad it’s over for both parties.”

Fred Mitchell, chairman of the Progressive Liberal Party, echoed similar sentiments, adding: “We simply thank the jury for their work and due diligence in sifting through the evidence and finding the facts. We are also grateful to the legal team led by Ms Tai Pinder for their representation of the member.”