MONTEGO BAY, St James — Construction worker Jordan Lightbody, who allegedly threatened to gut a co-worker and have him shot, has pleaded not guilty to charges of assault at common law and uttering threats.

Meanwhile, the man he allegedly threatened has refused to have the matter settled through mediation.

The allegations stem from an incident which is said to have occurred about 9:40 am on May 31, and Lightbody subsequently appeared before Judge Natiesha Fairclough-Hylton last Wednesday.

According to the prosecution, the complainant was at work when a heated argument developed between himself and Lightbody.

It is alleged that during the dispute, while the complainant was standing on a ladder, Lightbody drew a knife, placed it against the complainant’s left side, and said, “Mi a go cut out yuh stomach and will mek man shoot yuh!”

The prosecution further alleged that the argument continued, during which Lightbody told the complainant that he had links with persons in the Lilliput area and that the complainant could have been “shot up” while living in the community.

The complainant reportedly walked away before telling Lightbody to go ahead with whatever he intended to do, adding that he was ready for him.

The matter was subsequently reported to the police, and Lightbody was arrested and charged.

During last Wednesday’s proceedings, after the complainant said he had no interest in mediation, the court clerk also advised that the prosecution’s case file had been completed.

Judge Fairclough-Hylton subsequently scheduled the matter for trial on September 14 and extended Lightbody’s bail.