Philip murder suspect's lawyers ask for his release

A WRIT of habeas corpus was sent to the courts on behalf of the man who allegedly stabbed to death on Monday, Jezelle Philip – the principal of Baby’s Pre-School in Port of Spain.

The man's attorneys made the application on his behalf after he had been held since Monday.

A habeas corpus action requires a person under arrest to be taken before a court to secure his or her release, unless lawful grounds are shown for his / her continued detention.

Newsday was told the man is still in custody. A file is being prepared to be sent to the Director or Public Prosecutions, who will give advice on how to proceed with the matter.

At about 7.20 am on Monday, the first school day of 2020, Philip opened her school doors and began preparing for the term.

A male relative stabbed her several times. She died later at hospital.

The man allegedly surrendered to police after the incident. He was arrested and put in a holding cell at the Besson Street station where he remains up to press time.