The arraignment of US Marine Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton could take place next year, although a warrant had already been issued for his arrest.
According to Justice Undersecretary Jose Justiniano, the possibility of Pemberton being arraigned this year is very unlikely because of the ongoing inventory of cases in various courts before year-end. Because of this, even other court hearings are postponed.
The courts, the Department of Foreign Affairs, and the United States embassy will also have discuss first the issue of Pemberton’s custody under the commitments and agreements between the Philippines and the United States.
Pemberton has been charged with murder for the killing of Filipino transgender “Jennifer” Jeffrey Laude in Olongapo City.
