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Parish Judge Maxine Ellis expressed concern for the future of the country’s young men who she believes are being recruited to commit lottery fraud.
“Police need to do some research. Look at the demographics, look at who are the people who are accused of these types of crimes. What are their backgrounds, their demographics? That will tell a story and it will inform how we deal with young people in this country,” Ellis charged.
Her advice comes after Jaheim Henry, 22, made disturbing statements during his appearance in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court on Wednesday, where he faces one charge of possessing identifying information. Investigators allege Henry’s phone was searched and an Excel sheet containing the names, phone numbers and addresses of people living overseas was found.
Henry told the judge that he dropped out of high school and earned $6,000 a week selling eggs with his cousin. After Henry confessed, the judge speculated that Henry was well-suited to be recruited to engage in lottery fraud because he did not have the academic qualifications required to apply for the job.
“That’s the image of the recruits. They haven’t been to school, they haven’t been given any job description, no young man can make $6,000 and be happy. Look at what he’s wearing? He doesn’t look like a pauper. Young men in this country are making easy money,” Ellis argued.
“People are treating this like a job, they are training these young people as agents. There are recruiters out there, they are taking advantage of young people. I told you, remember I said it today. It is not accidental that the people who come to court with these main forms, identification information are young people. They are giving money that they normally would not earn because they leave school with no subjects and are not qualified to do any job. Someone comes to him and says ‘I know that person who can make you money’?” she reasoned.
The judge became even more infuriated when she heard that Henry, who was wearing a dark blue shirt, black pants and a pair of black Clarks shoes, was required to post $80,000 bail and bond.
“It’s a pittance, but if you (his mother) agree to let him live with you, I’ll let him stay. I’m taking him off the streets because he’s clearly one of them, ready to recruit,” she said. Ellis reviewed Henry’s bail conditions and added conditions that he must live with his mother in Stoney Hill and abide by a strict curfew order from 6pm to 6am every day. He is also required to report to police once a week.
“I’m a bit concerned about the number of people going to court for identity possession. That’s what’s happening to young people now. Instead of getting CXCs, City and Guilds certificates, degrees and diplomas, they’re being charged with identity possession. I’m very concerned about that,” Ellis said.
The case was adjourned until September 25, when it will continue in the Circuit Court.
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