AG Files Motion to Continue Trial in Valentine’s Day Murder Case

Jury selection remains scheduled for Feb. 20 in the Valentine’s Day 2024 robbery and murder case against Jenna Rose Calinagan Manibusan — but prosecutors are now asking the court to delay the proceedings. 

According to a filing submitted by Chief Prosecutor Curtis C. Van De Veld, the Attorney General’s Office has moved to continue the trial and protect the victims’ statutory rights. The motion states the court recently advanced jury selection from the originally scheduled March 3 date to Feb. 20, providing less than three working days’ notice to the victim’s family.

Prosecutors argue that the surviving husband— a listed witness in the case — is off-island until Feb. 22 and would be unable to attend the Feb. 20 start date. The victim’s children are also reportedly unable to be present due to the change. The motion cites Guam law requiring victims and immediate family members be informed of major case developments at least three working days in advance.

The filing also notes logistical challenges, including the need to subpoena numerous Guam Police Department witnesses and scheduling conflicts with other jury selections set for the same date and time.

Manibusan is accused in the Feb. 14, 2024 robbery and fatal shooting of 53-year-old Sumittra Lairopi outside a Tamuning restaurant. She has asserted her right to a speedy trial.

The court has not yet ruled on the motion to continue.