-
by pltm
(PLTM) - Kevin Tyson was sentenced to pay a compensation fine of $300 to a police officer, who was physically assaulted on the court’s premises on September 16th, 2016. His sentence was handed down moments ago by Magistrate Vareen Vanterpool.
Earlier today, February 9, Tyson pleaded guilty to the offence of assault causing actual bodily harm and showing disrespect to the Magistrate.
Prior to her sentencing, Magistrate Vanterpool noted that given the conditions that the accused is currently remanded, his early guilty plea, in addition to his apology and explanation, the court will impose no further consequences other than the compensation to the injured officer.
In mitigation, the accused told the court that he was in a bad state at the time, as his morning started with bad news, noting that he got word of his mother being admitted to the hospital.
“I wasn’t in a position to deal with court," he said.
He added that the officers tried to force him in the cell, and being that he was already frustrated, he snapped.
“People think I’m a bad person, but I'm not. My mother is the only persons who listens to me and understands. I’m sorry for my actions.”
According to the details provided by the Crown, on September 16, 2016, Tyson, a prisoner at Her Majesty’s Prison, was brought down to court for an appearance. In the process of officers retrieving him from the holding cell at the Magistrate’s Court, they instructed that he tidy himself, as his shirt was out of his pants. He refused.
Entering the court, he was again instructed by Magistrate Ayanna Baptiste Dabreo, who presided at the time, to fix himself properly.
Following him declining to comply once again, officers were instructed by the court to take him back to the cell. It was at this time Tyson became irate and loud, and violently pushed the officer.
While attempting to secure the accused, he began to throw punches, which caught the officer in his mouth and about his body.
Other officers at court at the time rushed to assist the lone officer. The brawl was reportedly controlled by officers pepper spraying the accused.
The court heard that the officer suffered bruises about his body from the beating.
He is scheduled to make another appearance on May 4th for report.
-----
Copyright 2023 by Virgin Islands Platinum News. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
