UWI medical chief’s 2007 assault case postponed to next year

Dr Carl Bruce, medical chief of staff at the University Hospital of the West Indies, will face trial next year for an alleged assault that dates back more than 18 years. The case has been rescheduled for next year in the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court.

The trail which was originally set for Monday has been pushed back to February 9, 2026.

The charges stem from an incident on January 31, 2007, when Bruce allegedly confronted former consultant neurosurgeon Dr Roger Hunter in the operating theatre planning room. Hunter claims that Bruce physically, verbally, and emotionally abused him.

He alleges that Bruce shoved him and grabbed his shirt and necktie, damaging both items valued at $5,000. Bruce also allegedly threatened repeatedly to spit in Hunter's face.

Hunter initially did not report the incident, believing it would be dealt with internally. He only reported the matter in November 2024, after returning to Jamaica, having migrated in 2008. Investigators told the court that attempts to contact Bruce after the report were initially unsuccessful.

Bruce's bail on charges of malicious destruction of property and assault-at-common law was extended. Attorney Hugh Wildman will prosecute the case on a fiat from the Director of Public Prosecutions, while Bruce is represented by Donovan Williams. Attorney Kimani Brydson appeared for the hospital.

- Tanesha Mundle

The trial, originally scheduled to begin Monday, was postponed to next year to allow preparations.