The search for a new Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in Antigua and Barbuda has begun after the departure of Jamaica-born Anthony Armstrong, who is facing criminal charges in his homeland.

Armstrong retired in December 2022 after being found guilty of professional misconduct for selling properties without his client’s consent. Shannon Jones-Gittens, who has been acting in the role, will not apply due to personal obligations.

The DPP plays a crucial role in the country’s justice system, responsible for prosecuting criminal cases and upholding the rule of law. The selection process involves a thorough review of applications, interviews, and assessments.

Attorney General Steadroy Benjamin confirmed that applications for the position are being submitted. Armstrong, who is jointly charged with Jamaican lawyer, Shelly-Ann Peart Campbell had their bail extended when they last appeared in court in Kingston earlier this month.

They are to return to court on October 13 facing trial on three counts of uttering forged documents and three counts of forgery, in addition to charges of conspiracy to defraud and fraudulent conversion.

Case against Armstrong

Armstrong’s arrest and charge relates to a guilty verdict of professional misconduct that was handed down by Jamaica’s General Legal Council (GLC) on January 28 last year. The court found the attorney guilty of selling and transferring three properties that belonged to one of his clients without his consent.

The GLC reprimanded him for signing as a witness, knowing that his client Michael Adams was not present but in prison in the United States. Armstrong was fined J$250,000 and had to pay costs of J$30,000 to the council.

The latest hearing however is a criminal case filed by the client in Jamaica.