St Catherine man who stole over US$7,000 from sister gets suspended sentence

A St Catherine man who pleaded guilty to breaking into his sister’s house and stealing over US$7,000 was on Monday given a three-year suspended sentence, with three years of supervision, in the parish court.

Twenty-two-year-old painter David Watson, of Glengoffe, pleaded guilty to larceny.

Before sentencing, the court was informed that Watson has so far paid $200,000 in restitution.

His attorney made a mitigation plea on Watson's behalf and asked the court for a non-custodial sentence.

The lawyer argued that Watson is of a young age, did not waste the court’s time, has made partial restitution, and therefore a non-custodial sentence would be appropriate.

Senior Parish Court Judge Desiree Alleyne remarked that despite his ability to work, Watson chose to conduct himself dishonestly.

"The sentence you received today is to keep you honest, as for the next three years it will be hanging over your head, so please take heed," Alleyne said in imposing the non-custodial sentence.

The facts are that on August 7, 2025, the complainant returned home to find that her house had been broken into and US$7,150 was missing.

The matter was reported to the Glengoffe police, and an investigation was launched, which resulted in the arrest and subsequent charge of Watson with larceny.

He pleaded guilty in court on August 18.

- Rasbert Turner

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