East End man jailed over sustained attack

(CNS): A 48-year-old man from East End has been given a three and a half year jail term after he stabbed another man multiple times during a fight at a local house 18 months ago. The court heard that Rudy Solomon perpetrated a sustained attack on his victim, even when he was on the ground with a broken leg and unable to defend himself. Solomon, who has mental health issues, pleaded guilty to wounding with intent in a case of excessive self-defence as his victim had provoked the fight.

Cayman Islands courthouse, George Town

The man who was stabbed had reportedly pelted a rock at Solomon one Sunday evening in January 2014 and kicked out at him during an altercation at a yard in John McLean Drive. But Solomon, who was carrying a craft knife at the time, pulled the weapon in response and repeatedly stabbed his assailant. As the man tried to escape, he fell and broke his leg, and even though he was on the ground and unable to flee, Solomon continued to stab him and did not stop, even as others tried to pull him away.

During the sentencing hearing Solomon’s defence attorney revealed a life checkered by bullying and abuse, as well as problems with drug and alcohol misuse, fueled my untreated mental health problems. He also offered his apologies and remorse over the incident.

Although Solomon has a relatively long rap sheet, the court hear that it had been more than 20 years since he was convicted of any violent offences and his pattern of offending had slowed down. And during his time on remand since the incident, Solomon was finally being properly treated for his mental health problems.

Justice Michael Mettyear said that, as a result of his injuries from the sustained attack and the broken leg, which was caused indirectly by Solomon, his victim had suffered physically and financially, as he sentenced the defendant to three years and six months jail time with his time served being taken into consideration. The court also noted the sense of optimism for Solomon now that his mental health issues were being properly addressed.