Tashieka Mair, Star Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
A Montego Bay man who blamed his cocaine addiction for his lawless behaviour was remanded in custody on Wednesday, and is to be assessed to ascertain if he qualified for the drug rehabilitation programme, Teen Challenge.
Kingsley Gray of Barnett Lane, Montego Bay, pleaded guilty to robbery with aggravation when he appeared before the Montego Bay Resident Magistrate's Court.
He even compensated the complainant after making a public apology to her.
Gray, who had faced the court three years ago for indecent assault, told the court that his cocaine addiction came about with the death of his mother. He asked the court for the opportunity to apologise to the complainant who was present, and though he had stolen $600, he repaid the female complainant $1,000.
Chump change
The court heard that on April 28, the complainant was on Barnett Street about 6:35 a.m. with her baby in hand when she was approached by the accused. Gray demanded money from the complainant and she gave him $100. Gray told the complainant, "a dis yu a dis mi. Mi nuh deal wid chump change" and also threatened to stab the baby.
It was further outlined that the complainant gave him $500 but he still demanded more money. However, he left after she opened her bag and showed him that there was no more money.
The complainant subsequently made a report to the investigating officer who was riding past. When Gray was apprehended the same day, he told the police that it was his drug addiction that was responsible for his actions and told the police that he had left the money at a shop in the area. However, the shopkeeper denied his claim.
He will remain in custody until June 6 as the court also awaits a copy of his criminal records.
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