18 months for grabbing cop's necklace

A man accused of snatching an off-duty policewoman's gold necklace was imprisoned when he appeared before the Corporate Area Resident Magistrate's Court on Tuesday.

Charged with robbery with aggravation and assault at common law is Michael Smith. He pleaded not guilty to the offence.

Allegations are that on the day of the incident, the accused man was seen loitering in downtown, Kingston in the vicinity of

West Parade. It is said that the accused man, along with other men, approached the female complainant, who is a police

officer, and moved threateningly towards her.

It is said that the complainant, who, unbeknown to the men, was a policewoman, was approached and her chain snatched from her neck. It is said that Smith used a knife in an attempt to injure the woman whose quick thinking caused her to draw her service pistol.

Following the alleged robbery, the policewoman fired two warning shots, during which time Smith made a hasty getaway.

He was later held, arrested, and charged.

In court, Smith begged for a second chance.

"Miss, I've been to prison, yu know, miss. I'm not lying to you. Is the first time I did do it," he said. "I didn't do it this time, Your honour,"

Senior Resident Magistrate Judith Pusey, however, did not appear to be swayed by the accused man's pleas. He was sentenced to 18 months in prison.