Coconut vendor reprimanded for assaulting couple at bar

Ryan O’neale Beckles’ assault on a couple last Friday evening landed him in a Bridgetown court.

The 47-year-old resident of Baxters, St Andrew pleaded guilty in the District ‘A’ Traffic Court to unlawfully assaulting Ryan McCallister and Juliette Holder on March 14.

Prosecutor Constable Ralph Rollock told the court that McCallister and Holder went to Rolli’s Bar and Grill. Beckles was already there.

Holder, who had known Beckles for over 40 years, greeted him by touching the back of his neck, as she normally would. She did the same thing when leaving. However, Beckles got up and pushed McCallister—who did not know him—to the ground. Holding a bottle of whiskey, Beckles then threatened to kill both complainants.

Other persons at the establishment pulled Beckles away from McCallister, but he broke free and then slapped Holder in the face.

When police arrived, Beckles claimed Holder had slapped him forcefully, but their investigation did not support his claim.

Magistrate Alison Burke reprimanded and discharged Beckles, warning him to stay out of trouble.