Taxi operator accused of stealing motor vehicle freed

Jermaine Knight, a 32-year-old taxi operator who was accused of stealing a motor vehicle, was on Thursday freed in the St Catherine Parish Court for lack of evidence and the absence of the complainant.

Knight, who is of a Long Lane address in St Andrew, was charged with larceny of motor vehicle, receiving stolen property, obtaining money by means of false pretence, and possession of revenue paper before such paper has been duly stamped, signed and issued for use.

When the matter was mentioned on Thursday before Parish Court Judge, Geneta Smikle, the investigating officer told the clerk of court that the complainant, who has migrated, was not interested in pursuing the matter.

Following this, the Crown conceded that a successful prosecution of Knight could not be done and, therefore, the matter should be dismissed.

The judge then told Knight he was free to go.

It was alleged that about 7 p.m. on June 24, 2024, a man parked and securely locked his Nissan caravan motor truck valued at $1.6 million and retired to bed. When he awoke, he discovered the vehicle missing.

It was further alleged that Knight later made modifications to the vehicle, and visited a tax office where he registered the vehicle in his name. He reportedly later sold the vehicle to a man for $1.2 million.

A report was made to the police and Knight was arrested, and was subsequently charged.

- Rasbert Turner

Follow The Gleaner on X and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.