A St Thomas steelbender, who waited for a passing car to splash him from a puddle, then threw a rock and damaged it on Jackson Main Road, has been fined $1 500 and ordered to pay $646.25 in compensation after admitting criminal damage and riotous behaviour.
Apologising for his actions in the No 2 District ‘A’ Magistrates’ Court, Jamar Renaldo Hamilton, of Ixora Crescent, Cane Garden, said frustration and anger at drivers splashing pedestrians had led him to throw rocks and strike in an incident that went viral on social media.
“I get wet twice that morning dropping my lil girl to school. I was annoyed at the fact that people wouldn’t take care and watch for pedestrians when the rain falling,” he told Acting Magistrate Shakieda Sealy.
The 41-year-old admitted that, without lawful excuse, he damaged a motor car belonging to Heather Goddard and walked onto Jackson Main Road and behaved in a riotous manner on Thursday.
The court heard that the complainant left work at about 7:30 a.m. and was driving along Jackson Main Road, where rain had recently fallen and puddles had formed.
As she drove along, she observed a man standing at the side of the road holding an umbrella. She heard the sound of an object striking the rear of her car. She did not stop and continued driving home.
On reaching home, she examined the rear of the car and observed an impact mark on the left side of the trunk. She subsequently saw a video of the incident on social media and, on realising that it was her motor car, reported the matter to the police. The estimated damage was $646.25.
“I would like to apologise to the lady and am willing to pay for the damage. I accept responsibility for my actions,” Hamilton said.
He added: “People just driving and splashing people. I even flag down a PSV and tell he slow down, people walking, and he throw off he hand at me. It was frustration and angry that I get wet with my little girl in hand and I get annoyed.”
Magistrate Sealy said: “I understand you were angry, but if everybody took matters into their own hands, imagine what society would look like.”
She ordered him to pay compensation in the amount of the damage immediately plus a fine of $1 500, which must be paid by January 15, 2027, or he will serve two months in prison.
(JB)
