$700,000 bail granted for uncle charged for cutting off nephew's hand

A man who allegedly used a machete to sever off his nephew's hand during an attack in Old Harbour, St Catherine last December was today granted $700,000 bail with surety in the parish court.

The accused, Jerome Pencle, is charged with wounding with intent.

In applying for bail, his attorney, Kemar Robinson, told Senior Parish Court Judge Desiree Alleyne that his client acted in self-defence.

"Your Honour, it is unfortunate that the complainant was gravely hurt, but it could have been a case where my client ended up under the ground," Robinson said.

The court was informed that an alternative address had been established for the accused.

Bail was granted on the condition that Pencle reports to the May Pen Police Station every Tuesday and surrenders his travel documents.

A stop order was also imposed.

He was ordered to reappear in court on May 15.

Allegations are that on December 5, 2024, the complainant was at home in Bullet Tree, Old Harbour, when Pencle, armed with a machete, attacked him.

The complainant raised his left hand to protect his head, but the blow severed his hand.

He was rescued and rushed to the hospital, where he was admitted.

An investigation by the Old Harbour police led to Pencle being charged with wounding with intent.

- Rasbert Turner

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