By Lesley Walsh
THE heartbroken family of Bangor teenager Jaidyn Rice have launched a scathing attack on the criminal justice system as they approach the first anniversary of her death, claiming they have been treated ‘disgustingly’ while seeking justice for the 16- year-old.
In their first in-depth interview since Jaidyn was killed on the West Circular Road on July 8 last year, her mother Elaine Clarke and grandmother Judith Rice say the past 12 months have been compounded by what they describe as a ‘very cold’ and ‘very robotic’ justice process.
The family claim the man accused of causing Jaidyn’s death has been treated ‘nicer’ than they have as they continue attending court hearings while the Public Prosecution Service prepares its case.
Next Wednesday evening, family and friends will gather at the spot where Jaidyn died for a vigil, filling the roadside with pink flags carrying personal messages to ‘remember her sparkle, look to the stars, and ensure that she is never forgotten’.
The anniversary also comes as the family continue campaigning for Jaidyn’s Law, which would make drug testing compulsory following serious road traffic collisions. The proposal has received unanimous support at Stormont.
Over the past year, Elaine and Judith have attended court on up to 10 occasions, including most recently last Thursday, supported by family members and Jaidyn’s close friends and boyfriend Ethan.
“I know a lot of people don’t like to go all the time but for us there’s not a lot more we can do for Jaidyn; for us it’s important that we are there,” said Elaine.
Reflecting on their experience of the criminal justice system, Elaine said the process had offered little comfort while the family tried to cope with their grief.
“Everybody has been shocked at how the justice system works and how the case has progressed,” said Elaine. “They’ve treated Jamie McCartney nicer than they have treated us,” she said of the police’s treatment of the man accused of causing Jaidyn’s death.
The family did, however, praise District Judge Amanda Brady, who Elaine said was ‘the only person so far who has recognised Jaidyn as a person’.
“The way we have been treated so far across the board has been disgusting,” she added.
The PSNI said it continues to extend its deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of Jaidyn Rice.
“Officers from the Police Service’s Collision Investigation Unit continue to communicate with, and update Jaidyn’s family, as the investigation progresses,” said a spokesman. “Senior officers have also met with the family to assist with their concerns.
“We are mindful, however, that as legal proceedings are ongoing at this time, we are unable to comment further,” he said.
