KINGSTON, Jamaica— An accused coal thief says he is seeking $50,000 in restitution following allegations he was wounded while being beaten with a machete during an altercation.

The complainant is accused of stealing seven bags of coal. He was allegedly beaten and wounded by Twayson Jones, who has since been charged with unlawful wounding.

Reports are that Jones accused the complainant of stealing the bags of coal and an argument developed. During the altercation, the accused reportedly used a machete to slap the complainant on his back, causing a wound.

The investigating officer attached to the case concurred that he observed the wound to the complainant’s side and that there was swelling in three different sections of his back.

The police had reportedly told the complainant to seek medical attention, however, in court on Tuesday the complainant stated that he did not comply.

When Senior Parish Judge Sanchia Burrell asked the complainant if he was seeking restitution in the matter, he responded in the affirmative, stating that he is seeking $50,000 in damages from the accused.

The case was referred to restorative justice and is set for mention on July 23.

-Vanessa James