On February 11, 2013, Errol Demond Jacobs of 2nd Avenue Arthur Land, Tweedside Road, St Michael, approached job foreman Rory Marshall from behind and used a shovel to strike him in the back of his head.
As per the information provided by State Counsel Paul Prescod during the trial, Jacobs and Marshall were engaged in building a chicken pen when a disagreement arose regarding the setup of the scaffolding.
During the investigation, Jacobs informed the law enforcement officers that Marshall had “dissed” him and made threats to withhold his wages. Jacobs admitted to using the shovel against Marshall but expressed remorse, stating, “I deeply regret what transpired.”
The attack resulted in severe injuries to Marshall, including multiple cuts, fractures on his face, a broken bone, damage to his right eye, and lasting disfigurement. Marshall had to undergo two separate medical procedures to address these injuries.
Jacobs pleaded guilty to the charge of causing serious bodily harm to Marshall through unlawful and malicious means. He conveyed his apologies for the incident.
State Counsel Prescod informed Justice Beckles that the severity of the offense warranted a custodial sentence. Prescod recommended that Jacobs compensate Marshall with an amount ranging from $25,000 to $30,000. If the compensation was not paid, an alternative option of imprisonment was suggested.