Deportation pending for teen robber

A Jamaican teenager who spent five months on remand after initially denying a robbery charge was handed to Immigration officials after admitting the offence.

Jahuan Jason Haniff, 18, of no fixed address, reappeared before the No. 2 District ‘A’ Magistrates’ Court and asked for the charge to be re-read before pleading guilty to robbing Carlos Edwards of a wallet valued at $50, a CIBC debit card valued at $20 and $40 cash on June 28, 2025.

Prosecutor Sergeant Kenmore Phillips said Edwards was on his way home that evening when, while walking along Hope’s Alley, he felt a sudden pain between the bridge of his neck and shoulder, causing him to stumble forward. He then felt someone searching through his pocket before the person eventually removed his wallet and ran off. He reported the incident to police.

On July 4, 2025, Haniff was seen walking along Pinfold Street. Officers had reason to stop and search him, and Edwards’ ATM card was found in his possession. He was arrested and taken to Central Police Station, where he gave a statement, took officers back to the scene and admitted the offence.

Acting Magistrate Shakieda Sealy sentenced Haniff to time served. After it was confirmed that he had no immigration status nor had begun the process, he was handed over to Immigration authorities.

(JB)