In a disturbing incident in St James, Jamaica, a local photographer has been formally charged with attempted rape and grievous sexual assault. The accused, 55-year-old Wellesley Morrison from Main Street, Mount Salem, allegedly attacked a woman at his photo studio on the morning of Wednesday, October 1. The victim, who had visited the studio, was reportedly confronted by Morrison after using the bathroom. He is accused of preventing her from leaving and subsequently sexually assaulting her. The incident was reported to the authorities, leading to Morrison’s arrest on Thursday. Charges were filed the following day, and his court appearance is currently being scheduled. This case has sparked outrage and raised concerns about safety in public spaces.
标签： Jamaica
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‘Apply!’ NHT urges Jamaicans
The National Housing Trust (NHT) in Jamaica is addressing long-standing criticisms regarding its loan amounts, which are often perceived as insufficient to cover the cost of homes. Dwayne Berbick, Assistant General Manager of Corporate Communications & Public Affairs at NHT, emphasizes the importance of applying for housing opportunities. “Once selected, we can discuss various tools and subsidies to make homeownership more affordable,” Berbick stated during an interview with the Jamaica Observer’s Real Estate on the Rock.
For properties on the open market, the NHT can lend up to $9 million to qualified individuals, while 100% financing is available for homes sold directly by the Trust. For instance, the Vineyard Town development offers 430-square-foot studio apartments priced at $15 million. A qualified individual earning at least $24,750 monthly can secure full financing, with monthly payments of $35,750 over a 40-year mortgage. Dual applicants would pay $38,750 monthly.
Berbick highlighted additional support mechanisms, such as home grants of up to $3.5 million for contributors earning less than $30,000 weekly with over seven years of contributions. Deferred financing is another option, allowing borrowers to pay 60% upfront and gradually cover the remaining 40% as their financial situation improves. The NHT also offers intergenerational mortgages, enabling younger family members to assist with repayments.
The NHT ensures affordability by selling homes at cost and applying subsidies in financing arrangements. “We aim to assist those who need it most,” Berbick explained. Despite high demand—evidenced by over 2,000 applications for the 14-unit Vineyard Town development on the first day—the NHT prioritizes applicants living or working near the developments and allocates units to special groups, including public sector workers and low-income earners.
Looking ahead, the NHT plans to release 210 units in Maxfield Park by year-end, part of its ongoing construction of 10,300 homes. Additionally, service lots in Malvern Housing Development, priced between $3.1 million and $5.8 million, offer 100% financing, allowing contributors to purchase land and begin construction using their NHT loan allotment.
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Inter Miami’s Ian Fray gets Reggae Boyz call-up for World Cup qualifiers
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican national football team, known as the Reggae Boyz, has unveiled its 26-man squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers in October, as confirmed by head coach Steve McClaren. The roster includes Inter Miami’s Ian Fray and 17-year-old Seymour Reid from New York City FC, both earning their first call-ups to the national team. The squad also welcomes the return of seven key players who missed the previous two matches in the Concacaf final round of World Cup qualifying. Among the returning stars are captain and goalkeeper Andre Blake, defenders Joel Latibeaudiere, Ethan Pinnock, and Amari’i Bell, as well as midfielder Bobby Reid and strikers Ruman Burrell and Demarai Gray. However, several players, including Leon Bailey, Mikhail Antonio, and Warner Brown, were excluded due to injuries. Jamaica, currently leading their four-team group after winning their first two matches, will face Curacao on October 10 in an away game before hosting Bermuda at the National Stadium in Kingston on October 15. McClaren emphasized the challenge posed by Curacao, led by former Netherlands coach Dick Advocaat, and highlighted the team’s Dutch-style play and home advantage on an artificial surface. Despite these factors, McClaren remains focused on maintaining Jamaica’s momentum in the qualifiers.
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Maresca denies Chelsea ‘discipline problem’ after spate of red cards
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has firmly denied that his team is grappling with a discipline crisis, despite a recent surge in red cards. The Blues have been reduced to 10 men in three of their last four matches, including defeats against Manchester United and Brighton. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez and defender Trevoh Chalobah were both sent off in those games, while forward Joao Pedro received a red card in Chelsea’s 1-0 Champions League victory over Benfica. Maresca emphasized the need to evaluate each incident individually, stating that not all red cards stem from poor discipline. He highlighted the split-second decisions players must make during high-pressure moments, which can lead to unfortunate outcomes. Despite these setbacks, Maresca remains optimistic about Chelsea’s trajectory, attributing their struggles to a combination of red cards and injuries, with eight players currently sidelined. Looking ahead to their Premier League clash with Liverpool, Maresca dismissed suggestions that the Reds are vulnerable following consecutive defeats. He praised Liverpool’s resilience in the wake of Diogo Jota’s tragic passing, calling their season performance ‘fantastic.’ Maresca is confident that Chelsea will regain their form and continue to progress.
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Kevin Downswell ‘blessed’ with 6 nominations in Sterling Gospel Awards
KINGSTON, Jamaica — Renowned gospel artist Kevin Downswell has expressed his gratitude and joy after securing six nominations at the prestigious Sterling Gospel Awards. The event, set to take place this Saturday at the Emmanuel Apostolic Church in Portmore, St Catherine, honors excellence in Caribbean gospel music and ministry. Downswell’s nominations span multiple categories, including Male Artiste of the Year, Local Hit Producer of the Year, Local Hit of the Year, Collab of the Year, Most Rated Event of the Year, and Video of the Year.
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West Indies bowling coach laments ‘tough day’ as India remain in control
In a commanding display of batting prowess, India seized control of the first Test against the West Indies in Ahmedabad, establishing a formidable lead of 286 runs by the end of day two. Dhruv Jurel and Ravindra Jadeja were the stars of the show, both scoring centuries in a marathon partnership of 206 runs. Jurel, a second-choice wicketkeeper playing in place of the injured Rishabh Pant, celebrated his maiden Test century with a boundary off West Indies captain Roston Chase, followed by a symbolic army-like tribute. Jadeja, meanwhile, notched his sixth Test hundred, marked by his signature sword celebration. KL Rahul also contributed significantly, scoring his 11th Test century before being dismissed shortly after lunch. India ended the day at 448-5 in response to the West Indies’ first-innings total of 162. The visitors, missing key bowlers Alzarri Joseph and Shamar Joseph due to injury, struggled to contain India’s relentless batting attack. With India now in a dominant position, they are strong favorites to secure a 2-0 series victory against a West Indies team that has significantly declined from its former glory.
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British teen dies in car crash 3 months after being freed from Dubai prison
A 19-year-old British teenager, Marcus Fakana, who was recently pardoned by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) leader after serving a prison sentence for a consensual relationship with a 17-year-old girl, has tragically died in a car accident. The incident occurred in Tottenham, north London, early Friday morning, following a police pursuit. Fakana was a passenger in the vehicle involved in the crash. According to Sky News, the driver, Marwaan Mohamed Huseen, has been charged with multiple offenses, including causing death by dangerous driving, driving without insurance, and failing to stop. Fakana had been serving a one-year sentence in the UAE, where the age of consent is 18, but was released after six months following a pardon from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He had returned to his home in Tottenham shortly after his release. The police reported that the vehicle involved in the crash was initially pursued but lost sight of before the collision occurred. Fakana sustained severe injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital.
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Indecent Proposal handles serious business… with laughs
Patrick Brown’s latest theatrical production, ‘Indecent Proposal,’ is currently captivating audiences at the Courtleigh Auditorium in New Kingston. While the play is laced with moments of humor, it delves deeply into the trials faced by single mothers, offering a poignant exploration of their struggles. Sharee Elise, a seasoned actress in Brown’s productions, takes on the role of Sarah, a waitress and mother of two children, who is desperately seeking stability in her life. Her character’s journey is further complicated by the arrival of Lenny, portrayed by Glen Campbell, a suitor who promises her a better life but soon discovers that his honorable intentions are met with unforeseen challenges. For Elise, embodying Sarah has been an enlightening experience. ‘Sarah has given me a unique perspective on the challenges that women in certain situations face,’ she shared with the Jamaica Observer. ‘As a single mother struggling to make ends meet, Sarah’s experiences have shown me how a lack of resources can lead to difficult choices that might otherwise be deemed unacceptable. This role has helped me understand the complexities of decision-making in the face of limited options.’ The cast is rounded out by Courtney Wilson, another regular in Brown’s plays, who plays Rex, Sarah’s ex and one of her delinquent babyfathers. ‘Indecent Proposal’ also highlights the breakdown of the nuclear family in Jamaica, once a cornerstone of the country’s society. ‘Too many households have been left on the backs of women who have to play the role of mother and father,’ Elise remarked. ‘In light of that, something must give, and unfortunately what ‘gives’ is a firm foundation for kids to thrive and grow into well-rounded individuals. Instead, a lot of them become victims of the circumstances of their surroundings.’ Elise, who hails from Falmouth, Trelawny, honed her craft as a member of the Ashe performing arts ensemble for 16 years before transitioning into acting. She has appeared in several of Brown’s plays, including ‘Windscream Posse,’ ‘Right Girl, Wrong Address,’ ‘Matey Chronicles,’ and ‘Duppy Whisperer.’ ‘Indecent Proposal’ premiered in July and is set to conclude its run on October 20.
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UN appoints new resident coordinator in Haiti
UNITED NATIONS (CMC) — In a significant move to bolster its efforts in Haiti, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres announced the appointment of Nicole Flora Boni Kouassi of Côte d’Ivoire as the new Deputy Special Representative for the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) and Resident Coordinator in Haiti. Additionally, she will assume the role of Humanitarian Coordinator. Boni Kouassi steps into the position previously held by Ingeborg Ulrika Ulfsdotter Richardson of Sweden, whom Guterres commended for her unwavering dedication and service to the UN. With over 22 years of experience within the UN system, Boni Kouassi brings a wealth of expertise in development, peace and security, and humanitarian efforts. Since 2022, she has served as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative in Niger. Her prior roles include UNDP Resident Representative in Burundi from 2019 to 2022 and interim Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in 2021. Boni Kouassi has also held leadership positions in Djibouti and Niger, as well as serving as a Senior UN Coherence Specialist in New York. Academically, she holds a Doctorate in Medicine from the Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Côte d’Ivoire and a Master of Public Health from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Maryland. Fluent in English, French, and her native Baule, Boni Kouassi is well-equipped to navigate the complexities of her new role in Haiti.
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Hellshire fatal crash victims identified
A tragic early morning accident in Hellshire, Portmore, St Catherine, has resulted in the deaths of two individuals and left several others injured, including a 12-year-old child. The incident occurred around 3:00 am on Saturday when a Honda Shuttle, driven by Jevaughn Martin, collided with a BMW on the main road. Both vehicles sustained severe damage, and the impact caused the BMW to crash into a utility pole. The occupants of both cars were rushed to the Spanish Town Hospital, where Martin, a 33-year-old taxi driver from Portmore, and Ryan Tulloch, a 17-year-old resident of Tawes Meadows in Spanish Town, succumbed to their injuries. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, which has left the community in mourning.