Pastor Murray found not guilty in fraud case

(CMR) Pastor Christopher Constantine Murray was found not guilty today by 6:1 after a lengthy deliberation by a jury of six women and one man.

Closing arguments were heard yesterday where Defense attorney Amelia Fosuhene reminded the jury it was the responsibility of the prosecution to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. In fact, she cautioned that the defense does not have to prove or disprove anything.

The case centered around the question of whether or not Murray had permission to sign on corporate documents for two former directors. They eventually alleged some years later that did not in fact give their person at all. For his part, a defense witness indicated the two complainants were attempting to “ruin pastor Murray and mash up the church.” They alleged they were upset because they were removed as directors. Further they were upset when the praise team was disbanded and their respective wives and daughters were no longer able to participate in that aspect of the church.

Prosecutor held strong on her position that signing a document on behalf of someone else was a serious matter and should not be taken lightly. She further asserted that it would not be something that would be easily forgotten. Claiming that Pastor Murray was reluctant to provide the documents upon request proved that he did not have permission to sign for the respective parties. In the end, the jurors did not find these points compelling enough.

Throughout the trial Murray remained calm and faithful that the verdict would vindicate him and prove his innocence. Speaking to CMR while awaiting the outcome he shared his optimism that the truth would be revealed.

Some of his church members attended the trial and even more arrived today in anticipation of the verdict. They were holding hands and praying during the deliberations.

His attorney noted that he was so understated in his sharing his community accomplishments with her that she was taken aback by the strength of the eyewitnesses that spoke on his behalf.

Murray, the pastor of Bethel Refuge Apostolic Church, is also employed by John Gray High School as a counselor. He started a program called Boys 2 Men in hopes of assisting at risk youth in the Cayman Islands.