Windshield wiper to stand trial
Accused of threatening driver who refused service
MONTEGO BAY, St James — A man accused of wielding a knife and threatening to stab a driver who refused his offer to clean his car’s windshield will face trial in the St James Parish Court in February.
Patrick Hemmings pleaded not guilty to assault at common law when he appeared before presiding Judge Kaysha Grant-Pryce.
According to court documents, on October 7, 2024 the male complainant was travelling in his motor car in the vicinity of Baywest Shopping Centre in Montego Bay. Hemmings approached his vehicle and offered to wipe his windshield. The complainant refused, and Hemmings allegedly pulled a knife from his waist and threatened to stab him.
Following the reading of the allegations, Grant-Pryce stated that Hemmings has a history of multiple court appearances, including a recent incident in which he was fined $40,000 for an unspecified offence.
“He is able to understand guilt and innocence, yes. He has a mild disability, and this is a permanent condition and no medication was given…but I don’t know Mr Hemmings to be sick. I know him to be here quite often, from 2016, 2017, and 2018,” noted the judge.
“You never pull out the knife from your waist at this man [the complainant]?” Grant-Pryce then asked Hemmings.
“No,” Hemmings responded.
“So what we must do, then? You’re going to have to try the matter. Who was here with you the last time? Somebody came here and paid $40,000 for you the other day. Who paid the fine for you?” Grant-Pryce inquired.
“Is me pay it,” Hemmings answered.
Grant-Pryce subsequently set the matter for trial on February 12 and remanded Hemmings until that date.