A Jamaica Defence Force soldier was charged Wednesday after his girlfriend was beaten and assaulted with a firearm at her workplace.

Lascelles Archibald Burke, a 42-year-old staff sergeant from Waterford, St Catherine, was charged following a ruling from the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

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Burke has been charged with possession of a firearm with intent to injure, assault occasioning grievous bodily harm and making use of a firearm to commit a felony.

Police reported that the incident occurred around 6:50 pm on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at the girlfriend’s place of employment on Rosseau Road in Kingston.

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Observer Online was informed that from information received and investigations carried out, the woman was at her workplace when Burke visited her and an argument developed.

During the argument, the police reported, the girlfriend was hit and kicked several times all over her body causing pain, bruises and swelling.

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She was then pushed against a wall and a firearm forced into her mouth and throat causing pain, bruises and swelling. After the altercation, Burke left the business place.

The soldier was interviewed in the presence of his attorney and a file was prepared and submitted to the office of the DPP who ruled that Burke should be charged.

It is the latest domestic violence incident involving a JDF soldier.

READ: JDF mum on ‘accidental shooting’ of soldier’s girlfriend

Earlier this month, a 25-year-old nail technician was hospitalised after being shot during an altercation at her home with her 40-year-old JDF corporal boyfriend.