Judge Cook gave a firm nod for everyone to be seated. He then cleared his throat and began, “During the recess, prior to my reaching of a verdict, the accused persons, Patrick Dupont and Pierre Whitlaw have pleaded guilty to the offenses charged. Alfred Cummings submitted the same plea after I’ve reached the verdict, hence, on legal principle, his plea will NOT be taken into account.”

“Corruption charges are criminal in nature, hence I can only sentence the accused persons according to our laws if it is beyond reasonable doubt that they committed the crimes alleged with the intention to commit it. In other words, the commission must be by...