A handcart operator from St Catherine was arrested after he allegedly robbed and sexually assaulted a man he lured to an abandoned building. The 30-year-old accused, who lives in Marlie Hill, Browns Hall, is facing multiple criminal charges for the violent incident that occurred in New Harbour Village earlier this year.
According to reports, the handcart operator went to a fast-food restaurant sometime after 3:00 p.m. in New Harbour View on January 13. While at the eatery, he met another man, and the encounter reportedly led to them planning to go back to the accused’s home.
The handcart operator left the restaurant with the other man, but they did not go to a house. The police were told that the destination changed, and the victim was instead taken to an abandoned structure.
Once there, the accused allegedly became violent with a gun. The accused is alleged to have produced a firearm and used it to threaten the victim. During the encounter, the victim was reportedly relieved of several personal items, including a high-end mobile phone, vehicle keys, and a wallet containing cash as well as important identification and bank cards. Police estimate that the phone, an iPhone 16 Pro Max, alone was valued at approximately $200,000, while the cash taken totalled $15,000.
According to the police, the victim was also sexually assaulted. When the matter was later reported by the victim, police launched a search in the area for the suspect. Officers were able to identify the suspect with the assistance of witnesses. When they accosted him, his body was searched for any weapons, which was when they reportedly discovered a Taurus .38 revolver tucked into his waistband. The weapon was seized as part of their investigation, and the accused was taken into police custody.
Following the discovery and further questioning, the man was formally charged with possession of a firearm, robbery, and buggery. Police have not disclosed when he is expected to return to court, but the case remains under active investigation.