Jamaica News Today: July 10, 2025
Kingston, Jamaica – July 10, 2025, marked a day of significant developments across Jamaica, ranging from a high-profile murder trial to a major announcement impacting the telecommunications sector and a new scholarship program aimed at supporting education. The news cycle was dominated by both tragedy and initiatives promising a brighter future for Jamaicans.
Maitland Murder Trial Continues
The courtroom proceedings continue to captivate the nation as the murder trial of Noel Maitland unfolds. Maitland is accused of the murder of his girlfriend, the prominent social media influencer Donnie Donaldson. The case has drawn significant public attention, with each day bringing forth new details and revelations.
A key piece of testimony came from a truck driver who testified about being hired to transport an item from Maitland’s apartment. Detectives later identified this item as the body of Donaldson. The driver’s testimony included information about the payment he received for the job and the nature of the item transported. The prosecution presented evidence, including recorded phone conversations between the driver and Maitland, which are considered crucial to their case. The recordings are expected to provide further insight into the events surrounding Donaldson’s disappearance and death. The trial is ongoing, and further developments are anticipated in the coming days.
Digicel Announces Closure of Loop News and SportsMax
In a surprising move, telecommunications giant Digicel announced the closure of two of its major media assets: Loop News and the regional sports broadcaster SportsMax. The closures are scheduled to take effect by August 8, marking a significant shift in Digicel’s strategic focus.
The company cited its intention to concentrate on enterprise services as the driving factor behind this decision. The move is expected to have a considerable impact on the local media landscape, with both Loop News and SportsMax holding a significant share of the market. Details regarding the future of the staff employed by the two outlets are still emerging, leaving many media professionals and sports enthusiasts concerned about their respective futures. This decision by Digicel highlights the ever-changing landscape of the telecommunications industry and its impact on other sectors.
JN Foundation Launches Scholarship Program
Amidst the somber news, there was positive news with the launch of a new scholarship program by the JN Foundation. The program aims to provide financial assistance to deserving Jamaican students, fostering educational opportunities and contributing to the development of the country.
The Minister of Labor and Social Security, Preacher Charles Juno, played a prominent role in the program’s unveiling, emphasizing the importance of the initiative and highlighting the collaborative efforts between the JN Foundation and the Ministry’s overseas employment program. This partnership aims to support Jamaican farm workers who are participating in overseas employment programs, specifically those working in Canada. The scholarship program, therefore, not only benefits students directly, but also acknowledges and supports the contributions of Jamaican workers abroad. The Minister’s remarks underscored the government’s commitment to education and to supporting the Jamaican diaspora.
The events of July 10, 2025, underscore the multifaceted nature of life in Jamaica. From the complex legal proceedings in the Maitland case to the economic shifts within the telecommunications industry and the launch of the JN Foundation scholarship program, the day brought a diverse array of news. The coming days and weeks will no doubt provide further insights into these ongoing developments, impacting the lives of Jamaicans across the island and beyond.