A trial for the murder of 51-year Dennis Richardson took another detour in recent days as a second V.I. Superior Court Judge has recused himself from trying the case before a jury.
On Nov. 18, Superior Court Judge James Carroll III recused himself from trying the case of Katino “Kay Kay” Peets and Jensen “Joseniah” Alexander, who are accused of fatally stabbing Richardson and raping his female companion at knifepoint on Oct. 14 on a Mandahl beach.
Carroll’s recusal follows that of Superior Court Judge Brenda Hollar, who removed herself from the case earlier this month.
Neither judge gave a reason—nor are they required to, court officials said Tuesday.
Judges are allowed to recuse themselves from any case in which they see a possible conflict of interest, whether by family or business ties to any of the parties or prior experiences or relationships with the parties during their legal careers, among other reasons.
Along with various weapons and assault charges, Peets is accused of stabbing Richardson multiple times after a beach party on Mandahl Bay beach while Alexander allegedly raped a 29-year-old woman who was camping with Richardson. Both Peets and Alexander face first-degree felony murder and rape charges, which could result in lifetime imprisonment if convicted.
Northside friends and family of Richardson, a popular local of Hull Bay, have been watching the progress of the case closely and meet regularly to discuss the procedural ups and downs.
The case has been assigned to Superior Court Judge Michael Dunston, court officials said Tuesday. Peets and Alexander remain in custody. No trial date has been set.
