Judge alters bail conditions for American who attacked cop

Christopher Thomas, Gleaner Writer

An American citizen who reportedly attacked a police officer in Montego Bay last month had his bail conditions altered to facilitate psychiatric treatment when he appeared in the Montego Bay Resident Magistrate's Court on Monday.

Twenty-seven-year old Peter Serrano from Crearyville, New York, is charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm, unlawful wounding, malicious destruction of property, and larceny. He had his bail extended until February 17, when his medical record is expected to be presented to the court.

It is alleged that on January 27, Serrano, who was on vacation in Jamaica, made a report to the police that some men had attempted to kidnap him. In response, two police officers went to the MegaMart store in Montego Bay, from where Serrano had made the report.

On the arrival of the officers, one of them was attacked by Serrano. A struggle ensued, during which Serrano damaged the cop's watch and managed to grab hold of her MP5 rifle.

The other officer came to his colleague's assistance and Serrano fled but was held shortly afterwards and charged.

CURRENTLY RECEIVING TREATMENT

On Monday, Serrano's lawyer, Stacy-Ann Young, asked presiding magistrate Carolyn Tie to adjust her client's bail conditions in order to allow him to visit the Cornwall Regional Hospital, where he is currently receiving psychiatric treatment.

"Regarding his (Serrano's) medical certificate from the hospital, they are asking for a little more time … . Might his bail conditions be varied so he can visit the hospital?" Young asked.

"A curfew order is put in place, save for his obtaining medical treatment," Tie responded.

Clerk of the Court Orrett Brown revealed that he had suggested to the female police complainant that the matter could be sent to mediation for the parties to reach a settlement.

"Counsel for the defence is seeking to canvass whether the complainant is willing to try mediation … . She appears to be willing, but she cannot speak for the other officer," said Brown, adding that the other officer in the case, who was not at court, was on leave.

"I cannot make an order (for mediation) without the other complainant's consent," Tie pointed out.

The case was subsequently set for mention on February 17.