Dear Editor:
As a one time resident of St. Croix, I have spent countless hours defending an island and its people from the "bad rap" that others have bestowed on them. Now, after reading your article, "2 BEAT MURDER CHARGE, CONVICTED ON OTHERS" (Dec. 22) I will never again defend the island that I, at one time, called home.
I am outraged and disgusted by this "fearful, distracted panel more concerned with the Christmas holiday than the facts of the case," as reported in The Avis and the Source. Dr. Paul Hess has given the people of St. Croix years of caring and love, and in return he's given yet another "shot," but this time it was through his heart.
This jury should be ashamed of themselves! Janet Morgan was a human being with a family and friends and a life. I condemn the people on this jury for taking their responsibility so lightly, being more concerned with getting on with their holiday, then doing their sacred duty as members of a court-appointed jury! This is a prime example of why the people of St. Croix are looked upon as ignorant.
I cannot imagine the pain that Paul Hess is experiencing right now. The people on this jury have stabbed him in the back. How can you live with yourselves knowing that you were quoted as saying "Let's just say not guilty because it's late", "Look at the time, people. We have to go, it's Christmas"? What about Paul Hess's Christmas? These men broke in to his home and murdered his partner in cold blood right in front of his eyes! And you allowed them to walk away from that without punishment!
As we venture into a new year, I pray for Dr. Paul Hess and the family and friends of Janet Morgan. And as for the jury that was "more concerned with the Christmas holiday than the facts of the case," may God have mercy on your souls.
Janel P. Jorda
Former resident of St. Croix living in Massachusetts
