Attorney-at-law Christopher Townsend has revealed how a carefully planned cross-examination helped secure a successful defence for dancehall artiste Munga Honorable in a murder case, insisting that the outcome was far from easy despite how it may have appeared to observers. Speaking on The FIX Podcast, Townsend credited his collaboration with fellow attorney Peter Champagnie, recalling how they reviewed the relevant documents, divided their cross-examination strategy and challenged inconsistencies in the sole witness’s testimony. “And the combination between us was deadly,” Townsend said, offering a glimpse into the preparation behind the courtroom outcome.
Townsend pushed back against the suggestion that the case was easy, comparing the precision required in cross-examination to a doctor performing surgery. He explained that the defence team had to carefully navigate the witness’s evidence to expose answers he considered ridiculous and inconsistent with common sense. According to Townsend, the strategy was developed after he and Champagnie examined the relevant documents and agreed on how to approach the questioning. They subsequently divided the cross-examination between them, with each attorney handling a different aspect of the strategy.
The experienced attorney said the effectiveness of their approach may not have been apparent to those observing the proceedings. However, he stressed that the preparation and coordination behind the scenes were crucial to challenging the testimony. His account highlights the role that detailed case preparation and strategic questioning can play in criminal defence, particularly when a case hinges on the credibility and consistency of witness evidence.
Townsend also shared a lighter detail about the aftermath of the case, revealing that Munga visited the attorneys and presented them with a large bottle of champagne, which they used to celebrate. He added that the legal team generally charges its agreed fees, although clients are welcome to offer an additional payment in recognition of a successful outcome. “And when we charge our fees, we have success in mind,” Townsend said.
The interview offers a rare insight into the legal strategy behind Munga Honorable’s murder case, while underscoring Townsend’s emphasis on preparation, precision and teamwork. His recollections also provide a glimpse into the professional relationship between the dancehall artiste and the attorneys who represented him.
