A delivery driver, who said he was merely rubbing his hands and not threatening to shoot his former friend, found himself before the court yesterday.
James Claudius Murrell, 53, of Rock Hampton Road, Jackson, St Michael, admitted to using the threatening words “I gine shoot you” towards Victor Clifford on May 19.
Prosecutor Sergeant Rudy Pilgrim told the District “A” Magistrates’ Court that both men frequented Thornhill’s Bar in Jackson. Last October, Murrell asked Clifford for money. He was rebuffed and some hostility developed between the two.
On May 18, the complainant was at the bar socialising when Murrell asked him what he was looking at him for. A verbal argument ensued and Murrell threatened to stab his former friend.
The next day, Clifford was at the bar meeting with the owner when Murrell came in and gestured with his hands that he would shoot him. Fearing for his life, Clifford made a report to police.
Murrell told Magistrate Kristie Cuffy-Sargeant he was employed at the bar and did not know the charge had escalated to this point.
“I was only told I used threatening words. I was told to plead guilty by the officer,” he said.
“Did you threaten the man?” the magistrate asked.
“No, Ma’am. I was told to plead guilty so I could go back to work. I was only rubbing my hands. I have my deliveries to make and my grandchildren . . . . If I could get some probation,” he said as his voice trailed off.
“I am sorry for telling him I would shoot him. I don’t want to waste the court’s time,” he added.
He was placed on a six-month bond to keep the peace, If he breaches it, he will have to pay $750 forthwith or spend two months in jail.
