A misunderstanding between a husband and wife in relation to the health of their six-month-old child has led to Joseph Hoyte facing two charges: assault and threatening behaviour.
It is alleged that on December 14 at Penny Lane, South Ruimveldt Gardens, Hoyte, 37, unlawfully assaulted his wife, Donnette Miller.
It is also alleged that on the same day at Penny Lane, South Ruimveldt Gardens, he also used threatening behaviour to Miller.
The accused pleaded not guilty to the threatening language charge but guilty to the assault charge while offering an explanation.
According to the prosecution, on the day in question at about 08:00 hrs Hoyte and his wife had a misunderstanding which resulted in an argument. He then chucked her in her head, telling her he would damage her and her children which resulted in her becoming afraid. The matter was reported, further investigations were carried out and he was subsequently charged.
Hoyte said in response, “As the court heard, we did have an argument over the six-month-old, who was not well and we were warned by the doctor to take the necessary precautions towards his health.” Hoyte said he had observed that the child displayed certain symptoms, but he didn’t chuck his wife. “I just place my hand on her head and tell her, ‘what happen to your senses?’ and ‘what have you learnt about the sickness?’”
Although he wasn’t asked, Hoyte went on to explain to the court exactly what he did. “I was just warning her. So I said before I end up getting vex and cause harm to you and the kids let me move out.”
The magistrate then asked Miller if Hoyte was in the habit of abusing her and she said no, but it had happened once before about one year ago.
The magistrate then fined Hoyte $5000 for the assault. In default, he will have to spend four weeks in prison. As regards the threatening behaviour charge, it was adjourned to January 9.
