Footballer charged in police assault incident

The accused are Cory Burke, 34, a professional footballer of King Street, Spanish Town; Keronie Moffat, 38, a customer service representative of Eltham Park; Cavel Christie, 32, a construction worker of Spanish Town; and Conroy Green, 43, a contractor from Maryland, USA.

According to a report from the Portmore police, the incident unfolded around 4:30 p.m. during a football match. The lawmen responded to complaints that a white Toyota Noah motor van, occupied by the accused, was blocking an entrance and causing a disturbance.

Upon arrival, officers instructed the driver to move the vehicle, a directive that was reportedly refused. The situation escalated rapidly when the four occupants exited the van. Police allege the men became disorderly, directing a torrent of indecent language at them.

When attempts were made to arrest the group, the accused allegedly resisted and physically assaulted two officers. The police report states that additional men joined the attack, leaving the outnumbered lawmen fearing for their safety. One officer subsequently discharged a single round into the air, causing the assailants to scatter.

Both injured officers required medical attention. Reinforcements were summoned to the scene, leading to the identification and arrest of the four primary accused.

The quartet has been formally charged with assaulting the police, resisting arrest, disorderly conduct, and use of indecent language. Their court date is currently being finalised.

The incident has cast a spotlight on Cory Burke, a forward for USL Championship side Lexington Sporting Club and a regular member of the Reggae Boyz, Jamaica’s national team. Burke, with 35 caps and nine goals for his country, is a well-known figure in US soccer with notable spells at Philadelphia Union and New York Red Bulls. 

The charges could potentially impact footballing career of the Old Harbour High past student, depending on the judicial outcome. A date for his arraignment is being finalised. 

The case continues to be investigated by the Portmore police.