KINGSTON, Jamaica — A St Catherine man has been charged with embezzlement following an alleged scheme at a roofing company on Slipe Road in Kingston on April 30.

He has been identified as 42-year-old David Smith, a project manager from Portmore Gardens, St Catherine.

Reports from the Half-Way Tree police indicate that the complainant met with Smith and agreed to purchase roofing materials valued at nearly $600,000. The complainant reportedly paid Smith US$3,700.

Between May and August 2026, the complainant reportedly made several attempts to contact Smith regarding the materials. During this period, Smith allegedly provided various explanations for the delay.

On Friday, September 4, the complainant reportedly visited the company and learned that Smith had not been employed there for approximately two months. The complainant was reportedly informed that the transaction had been processed, but there was no evidence that the company had received any money from Smith.

The matter was reported to the police, and on Saturday, September 5, Smith turned himself in. He was subsequently charged following a question-and-answer session conducted in the presence of his attorney.

Smith is scheduled to appear before the Half-Way Tree Parish Court on Friday, October 9.