Gangs Threaten St. James Businessman After Leaked CCTV Footage Links Suspects to Murder Scene

A businessman has reportedly been marked for death by a criminal gang after CCTV footage he provided to police surfaced online, showing suspects fleeing an October murder scene. Attorney Donovan Collins revealed that his client, who wishes to remain anonymous, began receiving death threats shortly after the footage went viral.

The disturbing footage shows four men leaving the scene of a fatal shooting in the Campbell Lane area of Mount Salem. On the morning of October 24, 52-year-old Donovan Hayles, known as “Pepper,” was gunned down while working on repairs in the area. Hours later, police apprehended two suspects and seized two firearms, including an AR-15 rifle. The video began circulating on social media soon after, purportedly without the businessman’s knowledge or consent.

According to Collins, unknown individuals began making threatening calls, warning the businessman to take down the footage—a demand beyond his control. “This is an alarming situation,” said Collins. “My client cooperated with law enforcement, only to have his life placed in jeopardy. There are laws in place compelling citizens to provide such evidence, yet there are few protections for those who do.”

The situation highlights a broader issue facing Jamaica’s anti-crime efforts: while CCTV evidence can be essential, leaks can compromise both investigations and witness safety. Experts stress the need for enhanced safeguards, especially for civilians cooperating with police in sensitive cases.

For now, the businessman remains in hiding, with his attorney urging the authorities to strengthen protocols to protect civilians who risk their safety by assisting law enforcement in combating violent crime.