KINGSTON, Jamaica — The co-parents of a nine-year-old girl had their assault charges reduced and were referred to counselling during a hearing in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court on Tuesday.

Andrea Clarke and Ryan Benjamin were each initially facing charges of assault occasioning grievous bodily harm following a physical altercation on March 18, 2024. During the incident, Clarke sustained a broken hand, while Benjamin suffered other injuries.

Appearing before Senior Parish Judge Sanchia Burrell, both parties said they were willing to explore alternative dispute resolution. As a result, Judge Burrell referred them to probation services for counselling.

“I do not care about you or your partner. I do, however, have a great interest in how children are affected by their parents especially when both parents are in the criminal court,” Judge Burrell said, while addressing Clarke who earlier told the court that she had undergone surgery and did not return to work until a month ago.

After reviewing medical certificates for both Clarke and Benjamin, the judge decided to further reduce the charges to assault occasioning bodily harm.

“Both of you have to intentionally forgive each other and determine how you will move forward,” Judge Burrell told them.

A case management hearing was scheduled for March 2025 and their bails were extended.

— Kelsey Thomas