Efforts intensified to secure release of Jamaican pilot in Qatar prison

The Jamaican authorities have intensified efforts to secure the early release of a Jamaican pilot being held in a prison in Qatar.
Paul Stephens, was sentenced to five years behind bars in November 2012 and was unsuccessful in his appeal.

A report from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs says on November 23 the Jamaican Government, through its Embassy in Kuwait, sent a Diplomatic Note to the State of Qatar, requesting the grant of pardon that would allow the early release of Stephens.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry is trying to ascertain the expected release date in light of time served and any time off for good behaviour.

The Government, while stating that it is hopeful the request for pardon will be favourably considered, cautioned that the matter is totally at the discretion of the authorities in Qatar.

Stephens was arrested after being accused of sexual molestation. He was eventually found guilty of betrayal of trust of a minor and sent to the Salwa prison in Qatar.

source: rjrnews