Western Bureau

A jealous man who broke into his ex-girlfriend's house and assaulted her was referred to a probation officer when he appeared before the Montego Bay Resident Magistrate's Court on Wednesday.

Desdale Shakes of a Montego Bay address pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding and malicious destruction of property when he appeared before Resident Magistrate Winsome Henry.

RM Henry was visibly shocked after hearing allegations that the accused turned up at the complainant's home at 2 a.m., broke five louvre windows valued at $4,000 and entered the woman's home.

It is alleged that on November 8, the complainant was in bed with her new boyfriend when Shakes came to the house. He reportedly shouted at the complainant in an attempt to find out who was in the house with her.

He reportedly entered the house after breaking the windows and held on to the complainant's boyfriend, however, the man was able to escape.

Slashed victim

Further allegations are that Shakes pulled a knife and cut the complainant in her face and on her left arm. The complainant ran to a neighbour's house for help and the police were subsequently contacted.

Shakes' attorney, Adrian Dayes, told the court that his client and complainant were back together, despite the complainant telling the court that she left him a month ago before starting a new relationship.

However, RM Henry ordered that they both receive counselling from a probation officer as the accused may need to enrol in a programme to deal with his anger. The matter is scheduled for mention on February 19.