Night in jail for outburst in court

Told that the fine should be paid within two months and that he was free to go, Kevon King, 28, of Bayshore, Marabella, unleashed a barrage of criticisms against police officers and, even as he exited the court, his shouts were heard by San Fernando First Court magistrate, Nanette Forde-John.

King was warned by police officers but he persisted. He was arrested.

The charges against King were laid by Police Constable Andre Rodriguez of the San Fernando CID. He had pleaded not guilty and, since 2010, the trial had been pending, with the defendant back and forth in court.

On Monday last, the trial began before Forde-John in which the court police prosecutor, PC Ramdath Phillip, prosecuted. King testified that he did not have the marijuana. But Rodriguez testified that he was on police patrol when he had cause to intercept a car and search King who was an occupant of the vehicle.

The case was adjourned for decision yesterday and Forde-John told King that, based on the evidence, he was guilty as charged on the two counts.

King began to shout, “This is a frame case; God doh sleep. Is better you plead guilty.” The magistrate, however, proceeded to fine him $300 for possession of the marijuana, and, $500 for resisting arrest.

But after she did so, King shouted, “This is a frame-up case; it have ah God. I had no marijuana on me.” While walking out of the court, police officers warned him about the shouting in the precincts of the courthouse, but he shouted “This is unfairness, but it have a God.” When King descended the steps of the courthouse, there was a scuffle and police officers attempted to arrest him, but he tried to fight them off.

PC Dustin John, who was trying to hold on to King, was pushed backwards and fell on the pavement injuring his knee.