Alleged bar assault prosecution advances to trial, SunCity 104.9 FM reports

MONTEGO BAY, St James — A dispute that allegedly erupted over a gaming machine at a Barnett Street bar in St James is now heading toward trial, after the accused man returned to court on Wednesday.

Laurice Johnson appeared before Judge Natiesha Fairclough-Hylton in the St James Parish Court, where the matter was advanced further through the judicial process. Johnson is being represented by attorney-at-law Michael Hemmings.

The case has been set for trial on May 28, and Johnson’s bail was extended.

The allegations stem from an incident said to have unfolded on February 19 at about 8:30 p.m. inside the popular entertainment spot.

According to court allegations, the complainant was at the bar using a gaming machine when frustration reportedly boiled over after the outcome of a game. He allegedly began striking the machine repeatedly, creating a disturbance that drew attention from persons inside the establishment.

The bartender is said to have stepped in, advising the man to finish using whatever credits remained before leaving the location.

AI-generated illustration of Barnett Street nightlife for visual representation purposes only and not an actual photograph of a real location

Moments later, Johnson — who investigators allege is the owner of the bar — reportedly approached the complainant and instructed him to leave. Prosecutors allege that as the complainant attempted to exit, Johnson forcefully shoved him through the doorway using his body.

But the confrontation allegedly did not end there.

The court heard allegations that once outside, Johnson allegedly took an object from his pocket and used it to slash the complainant on the neck.

The incident was later reported to the police, and Johnson was subsequently arrested and charged with unlawful wounding.