Motorist Fined $100,000 After Police Chase in St James

MONTEGO BAY, St James — A motorist who faced several charges following a police pursuit in St James has avoided jail time after the matter was resolved through mediation in the parish court.

Damien Aaron appeared before the St James Parish Court where he was charged with careless driving causing a collision, malicious destruction of property, and assault. The case was heard by Justice Natiesha Fairclough-Hylton.

Attorney Martyn Thomas, who represented Aaron, proposed that the matter be addressed through mediation between the parties involved. The court agreed to the suggestion, and the case was subsequently referred for discussions that resulted in an agreement.

The charges arose from an incident on January 19 at about 5:45 p.m. near Donway in Montego Bay. Police reports indicate that a district constable conducting spot checks noticed a motor vehicle travelling from the direction of Dead End Beach with its fog lights activated.

The driver was reportedly signalled to stop but instead drove away, overtaking several vehicles travelling toward a nearby commercial area. The constable then pursued the vehicle.

During the pursuit, the vehicle reportedly made a U-turn near Donway and travelled back in the same direction. Police further alleged that the driver came dangerously close to a female district constable, who moved out of the roadway to avoid being struck.

Investigators also reported that the vehicle later swerved toward a male district constable, hitting the front of his motorcycle and leaving it inoperable. The officer later complained of pain to his left knee and side.

In mitigation, Thomas told the court that his client indicated he did not see the officer during the incident. He also explained that Aaron had been experiencing a difficult day and had expressed regret for what occurred.

The attorney further noted that Aaron is generally regarded as a responsible driver and does not frequently appear before the Traffic Court.

Following the mediation outcome, Justice Fairclough-Hylton imposed a fine of $100,000 or 30 days’ imprisonment for the charge of careless driving causing a collision. Based on the agreement reached during mediation, no evidence was presented regarding the remaining charges.