KINGSTON, Jamaica — A young woman on Tuesday had her charge of simple larceny dismissed when she appeared in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court.

Renee Golding appeared before Senior Parish Judge Paula Blake Powell accused of stealing a Samsung Galaxy phone from another young woman who was also in court.

That complainant indicated she was willing to drop the charge against Golding if the phone was returned to her.

Upon hearing this, Golding appeared hesitant and, through an attorney, told the court that the complainant allegedly owed her money.

Blake Powell cautioned Golding, indicating that a trial could lead to her having a criminal record.

She maintained that, regarding whatever money was owed, Golding was free to seek restitution of her own by filing a case against the complainant.

Following this, an order was made for the phone to be returned and Golding pleaded not guilty.

Prosecutors offered no evidence against her and the charge was dropped.

— Dana Malcolm