KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Crown witness in the Uchence Wilson gang trial this morning told the court that he made the decision to testify against his ex-accomplices because they caused him to be homeless and beat him for stealing a portion of the loot.

“Because they rob a lot of people and they are the reason why mi [family] put me out and forsake mi and me didn’t have anywhere to live. Also beat me and say a love dem love mi  why dem beat mi,” he said.

The former gang member, who is testifying in the Home Circuit Court via video link, made the disclosure during the final moments of his evidence in chief.

When asked why he was beaten, he explained that one of the defendants  girlfriend,  Tashina Baker, informed the men that he had stolen some cigarettes, phone cards and coins.

The witness, who admitted to stealing the items, said as a result he was beaten by the alleged gang leader, Uchence Wilson, as well as Devin Taylor, Michael Lamont and Keron Walters.

The witness is now facing cross-examination.

Tanesha Mundle