Guard steals building supplies to support child

A 29-year-old security guard who pleaded guilty to stealing at least $11 million worth of items from a construction site said it was a last resort to get cash for his then unborn child.

The defendant Kemar Powell told the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court that he stole a quantity of steel, cement, thinset, toilets, interior doors, paints, jackhammers, saws and tiles from the property.

"A just true me baby mada did pregnant and that kinda trigger my brain likkle bit. A my first yute so yuh know we affi shub out," Powell explained, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to simple larceny, simple larceny and malicious destruction.

"Look what you get yourself into. She did a pressure you for money?" Senior Parish Judge Lori-Anne Cole-Montaque queried.

"Yes, Your Honour," the defendant replied. The child is reportedly six months old.

Powell was not sentenced yesterday but was remanded in custody until March 24. He was made the subject of a fingerprint order.

His co-accused, Rolando Stewart and Denri Wedderburn, had their bail extended to return to court on the same date, when their matter is set to be mentioned. They pleaded not guilty to a charge of receiving stolen property.