Alleged con man operates from police station

A group of disgruntled complainants lined up in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court on Wednesday, demanding restitution from Racque May, a security guard who posed as a police officer and defrauded them of money and goods.

May's alleged elaborate scheme, which involved using police stations to carry out his scams, left many anticipating their turn to be repaid. For months, he allegedly masqueraded as a police officer and convinced people to part with their cash or goods under false pretences.

"Sir, you have $150,000?" the prosecutor asked on Wednesday in relation to one complainant. Another complainant was paid $65,000, while more complainants seemed to be coming in by the hour.

May appeared in court with just $70,000, a sum that barely scratched the surface of the total owed to the victims. The man who was duped out of $65,000 was present with his lawyer determined to get his money in full.

Judge Simone Walker-McFarlane, uncertain of how that money could be split, recommended on-the-spot mediation to avoid lengthy delays. While one complainant was paid, the majority left the courtroom disappointed, knowing they would have to wait even longer for restitution.

May is set to return to court on December 20, to continue addressing the claims.