TASHIEKA MAIR, STAR Writer
WESTERN BUREAU
POPULAR ST. JAMES policeman Corporal Clive 'Karate Georgie' Lawrence had his simple larceny case dismissed in the Montego Bay RM Court, yesterday.
RM Winsome Henry dismissed the year-old case after Crown witnesses failed to show for at least three trial dates.
However, the prosecution reserves the right to recall the case if the witnesses turned up. Lawrence's reinstatement in the Jamaica Constabulary Force will be up to his superiors.
Lawrence was part of a team of police and customs officials who carried out operations at Saleem and Company Limited in Montego Bay on August 4, last year.
He was charged by the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) detectives in November 2004 when he was allegedly found with an expensive cellular phone that was reportedly discovered missing from the business place.
In giving his side of the story, the cop explained that the phone that he was accused of stealing was actually sent to him from England in October last year. "I was embarrassed and still embarrassed by the situation. Even though I feel good, deep down I am still hurt," he said after the case.
He said in his years of service to the JCF, he was given many accolades from international and local officials, for his honesty and hard work including recognition from former Prime Minister of Jamaica, Michael Manley. "Look at my success over the years, do you think that at that stage of my career I would want to steal a phone?" Cpl. Lawrence asked.
He said if asked to return to work, he would be more than happy to serve and protect.
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