Suspect Thomas Etheridge Re-Arrested After Fainting outside the Court, Legal Drama Intensifies”

Capitol Hill: Thomas Etheridge, a key suspect in the Capitol Building arson, was re-arrested yesterday following a dramatic incident at the Temple of Justice, where he fainted during court proceedings. Etheridge, who had been released from government custody earlier this week, was immediately taken to a nearby hospital for medical treatment, according to judicial sources.

Etheridge faces several serious charges, including illegal possession of a firearm, aggravated assault, criminal conspiracy, and other offenses, due to his alleged involvement in the Capitol Building fire. His appearance in court on Monday, January 13, 2025, came after a contentious legal battle over his detention.

Contrary to earlier reports suggesting Etheridge had gone missing while in custody, it was later revealed that he had been transferred to Criminal Court 'B'. His court appearance followed a writ of habeas corpus filed by his defense attorneys, who accused law enforcement and the Ministry of Justice of unlawfully detaining him for more than 48 hours without formal charges.

During the habeas corpus hearing, Judge Koiboi Nuta considered Etheridge’s claims of torture while in police custody. However, the judge made it clear that the court lacked jurisdiction to address the physical condition claims at that time. Judge Nuta then ordered Etheridge to undergo a medical evaluation at an accredited facility, with a report due by January 16, 2025, at 10 a.m.

In an unexpected turn, the judge also ruled that Etheridge be released into the custody of his family members, a decision that raised significant concerns from the prosecution. Chief Prosecutor Cllr. Richard Scott, representing the state, strongly opposed the ruling and vowed to challenge it in court, seeking to ensure justice is served.

The case has sparked considerable controversy, with some questioning the fairness of the judicial process and others expressing concern over Etheridge’s treatment while in custody. His re-arrest has only added to the uncertainty surrounding the case, raising questions about the legal battles ahead.

The legal drama surrounding Thomas Etheridge continues to unfold, as both the defense and prosecution prepare for the next phase of proceedings. Court Reporter Benjamin Q. Johnson