Olongapo (CNN Philippines) – Some crucial evidence that could prove that Filipino transgender Jennifer Laude was murdered by Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton, a U.S.. marine, were not admitted by the regional trial court handling the case.
City Prosecutor Emilie de los Santos said these are reports from the Naval Criminal Investigative Service and PNP Crime Laboratory, which cover forensic exams of Laude’s body.
According to De los Santos, these reports are vital in substantiating that the crime committed was murder and not homicide.
“This is murder and yung non-admission of some evidence would also affect if it will slide down to homicide… Part of it is that all those injuries sustained by Jennifer Laude that would prove kung ano yung dinanas niya,” De los Santos said.
In a resolution dated July 30, the court denied admission of these evidence “on the ground that these exhibits were not properly identified” and that “the persons who prepared or signed the documents were not presented” by the prosecution.
But state prosecutors would not easily give up, as they filed today a motion for reconsideration seeking these evidence be admitted.
Pemberton, Mom to Take Witness Stand for Defense
Meantime, Pemberton’s lawyers postponed their presentation of witnesses scheduled today.
Atty. Rowena Garcia–Flores said, they will either present the accused himself or his mother.
The defense also asked the court for time, to comment on the court ruling on the prosecution’s formal evidence.
The court rescheduled the presentation of evidence by the defense next Monday, August 10.
CNN Philippines’ AC Nicholls contributed to this report.
