分类： society

A three-year-old assault case linked to a violent altercation at the Sunrise Breakfast Fete in Willikies has reached its conclusion, with Annalee Jeffrey, also known as the “Lace Doctor,” pleading guilty to grievous bodily harm. The verdict was delivered by Justice Stanley John in the High Court on October 16, 2025. Jeffrey, a 29-year-old Jamaican national at the time of the 2022 incident, was ordered to pay her victim $20,000 in four monthly installments of $5,000, starting October 31, 2025, with full payment due by January 31, 2026. Failure to comply will result in a one-year prison sentence. Additionally, Jeffrey was placed under a two-year bond, with a breach potentially adding another year to her incarceration. The assault occurred when Jeffrey attacked a woman she suspected of being involved with her husband. The altercation took place at a food booth where the victim was working alongside Jeffrey’s husband. During the struggle, a pot of boiling goat water spilled, causing burns to both women. The case highlights the severe consequences of violent confrontations and the legal repercussions faced by perpetrators.

The Bendals community breathed a collective sigh of relief as 28-year-old Merlissa Jhero, who had been missing for nearly three weeks, was confirmed safe and in good health. Jhero was last seen on October 14, sparking widespread concern and prompting extensive search efforts led by both the community and local authorities. On Saturday, a family member shared the welcome news on social media, stating, ‘Merlissa Jhero has reached out confirming she is safe… We are very grateful that she is safe.’ The family also took the opportunity to encourage others to communicate their whereabouts to loved ones if they ever need time away, emphasizing the importance of sparing relatives from unnecessary worry and stress. While police are expected to conduct routine follow-up inquiries, the focus for now remains on the joy and gratitude felt by the community. Residents expressed their relief, simply thankful that Jhero has been found unharmed.

In a passionate address during Thursday’s parliamentary debate on the Tax Administration and Procedure (Amendment) Bill 2025, St. John’s Rural South MP Daryll Matthew highlighted the urgent need to tackle abandoned and decaying buildings across the island. Describing these structures as ‘havens for criminals and rodents,’ Matthew emphasized their detrimental impact on public health and community safety. He revealed that a recent survey in the Lower Ottos area of his constituency identified 151 abandoned properties, many of which are overrun with vegetation, vermin, and criminal activity. ‘These properties have become havens for criminals and hotels for rodents,’ Matthew stated. ‘We have an opportunity to turn what is now decay into development — to turn a nuisance into something nice.’ The MP argued that the new legislation provides the government with the necessary tools to address derelict properties, which have long been eyesores and public health hazards. He proposed that properties acquired through the process could be converted into green spaces, playgrounds, or housing lots, particularly for residents living near the abandoned sites. Matthew also suggested the introduction of an escrow system to protect the proceeds of property sales in cases where an owner or heir later reappears, and recommended waiving stamp duty for buyers who purchase derelict lots through public auction to encourage redevelopment. ‘This is a chance to improve the quality of life for everyone,’ Matthew concluded. ‘We have been elected to solve problems, not allow them to rot in our neighborhoods.’ The Tax Administration and Procedure (Amendment) Bill 2025 passed later that day with the government’s majority support, marking a significant step toward community revitalization and public safety.