Accused purse snatcher to get psychiatric evaluation

WESTERN BUREAU:A St James man who reportedly robbed a woman of her handbag was remanded in police custody on Monday by the Montego Bay Resident Magistrate's Court, in order for a psychiatric evaluation to be done on him.

Thirty-two-year-old Kemar Wellington, who is of a Montego Bay address, had previously pleaded guilty to larceny from the person committed against Alicia McKenzie. His case was set for sentencing on December 20.

It is alleged that on October 22 McKenzie was walking along Gloucester Avenue when Wellington approached her and grabbed her handbag before running off. McKenzie made an alarm and Wellington dropped the bag and fled but was subsequently chased and held by a security officer.

On Monday, Wellington's lawyer Carl Singh indicated that his client's actions may have been triggered by psychological issues, even as he pleaded for leniency from presiding magistrate Carolyn Tie in sentencing the defendant.

"He (Wellington) had said he had financial constraints, but his girlfriend was unaware of any such challenges, so it could be a psychological issue," said Singh. "Mr Wellington has pleaded guilty to this offence, and I hope you will look at this as a sign of repentance ... . I do not believe a prison sentence may be helpful."

"If you are suggesting that he (Wellington) has mental issues, perhaps a psychiatric report may be helpful," RM Tie replied. "You will be brought back for sentencing on December 20," the magistrate addressed Wellington, as she made the order for a psychiatric evaluation to be conducted.

- C.T.