KINGSTON, Jamaica — A romantic relationship that turned sour led to a lover’s spat at the Bustamante Hospital for Children, resulting in a man being ordered to pay $2,000 for disorderly conduct.

John Cook pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct and being armed with an offensive weapon when he appeared in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court on Tuesday before Senior Parish Judge Sanchia Burrell.

According to court documents, on May 23, 2024, Cook, a porter at the hospital, attempted to physically assault his ex-girlfriend after she did not answer his phone calls. The ex-girlfriend, who also works at the hospital, reportedly retreated to her supervisor’s office when the accused accosted her.

It is alleged that after work, while walking to the bus stop, the complainant was approached by Cook, who was armed with a ratchet knife, and he threatened to harm her if she continued walking behind him.

Allegations are that Cook then started shouting and throwing food at the complainant. His threat was reportedly made in front of officers.

Pleading his case, Cook’s lawyer argued that the knife he had in his possession was used by the accused to sort garbage (to cut bags) as a porter at the hospital.

Cook was also charged with assault occasioning bodily harm but pleaded not guilty to that charge. In that regard, he was discharged.

Judge Burrell inquired if the former couple was open to mediation, to which the complainant responded in the negative.

Cook was sentenced to pay a $2,000 fine or serve 10 days in prison for disorderly conduct and being armed with an offensive weapon. The sentences are to run concurrently.

Warning Cook before he left the courtroom, Judge Burrell said, “If you like to put your hands on people’s daughter, you will be back here.”

— Kelsey Thomas