Windshield wiper accused of threatening to stab man

A St James man who allegedly threatened to stab a motorist for refusing to let him wipe his windshield, will stand trial in the St James Parish Court next month.

Patrick Hemmings pleaded not guilty to the charge of assault at common law when he appeared before presiding Judge Kaysha Grant-Pryce. The allegations are that on October 7, 2024, the male complainant was travelling in his motor car in the vicinity of the Baywest Shopping Centre in Montego Bay, when Hemmings approached his vehicle and offered to wipe his windshield. The complainant refused, and Hemmings allegedly drew a knife from his waist and threatened to stab him. After the allegations were outlined, Grant-Pryce noted that Hemmings has had several previous appearances before the court, including another recent case for which he was fined $40,000 for an unspecified charge.

"He is able to understand guilt and innocence, yes. He has a mild disability, and this is a permanent condition and no medication was given...[but] I don't know Mr Hemmings to be sick. I know him to be here quite often, from 2016, 2017, and 2018," Grant-Pryce remarked.

"You never pull out the knife from your waist at this man [the complainant]?" Grant-Pryce asked Hemmings a moment later.

"No," Hemmings said firmly.

"So what we must do, then? You're going to have to try the matter. Who was here with you the last time? Somebody came here and paid $40,000 for you the other day. Who paid the fine for you?" Grant-Pryce inquired.

"Is me pay it," Hemmings answered.

Grant-Pryce subsequently set the matter for trial on February 12 and remanded Hemmings until that date. She also issued a subpoena for the investigating officer and all other witnesses to attend court on the next date.

- C.T.