Despite initial conflicting reports, dancehall superstar Andre Sutherland better known as Popcaan is pushing forward with legal action against the state. The artiste and his attorney have launched a defamation suit against the Government based on remarks released by the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) regarding alleged false statements against him.
The suit was brought by prominent attorney-at-law Bert Samuels of the firm Knight, Junior & Samuels against the state; the Attorney General is named as the defendant.
On Wednesday, the JCF issued a statement via a media release concerning the artist and purported legal troubles in Barbados.
It was intended to explain the entertainer’s recent lengthy delay in processing by UK immigration. The law firm representing the Unruly Boss released a statement denying the accuracy of the material disseminated by the Constabulary Force.
The law firm had warned that legal action would be taken if the JCF did not offer an apology by midday on Thursday. Samuels expressed that the JCF failed to respond. Hence, the lawsuit was filed.
According to Samuels, the sole charge brought against Popcaan was for possession of marijuana in 2009, specifically for smoking a spliff, which was expunged from his criminal record in Barbados.
The lawsuit outlines that the Jamaica Constabulary Force news release contained unfounded and malicious assertions that caused the entertainer harm, injury, and loss.
In addition to general damages, Popcaan is suing for damages for defamation, interest, legal fees, and any other relief the court decides is appropriate.
