years, after being found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm.

April Cato, 28, was found guilty of fighting and injuring another woman in September 1999, over a man.

Cato's defence lawyer Kim Wilson said: "The circumstances involved the element of intoxication, both the victim and Ms. Cato -- were under alcohol and jealousy about a shared male companion.'' Ms. Wilson also noted racial slurs, while not confirmed during trial, were alleged.

During sentencing, Ms. Wilson said the social inquiry report substantiated her client's claim of a changed life-style.

"She (Cato) has received a rude awakening.'' said Ms. Wilson, explaining the threat of a custodial sentence made Cato change her life.

"Even the probation officer said she has developed a genuine remorse.

Probation services said they feel the likelihood of re-offence is diminished.

"And she has taken it one step further by not going to the places the complainant would be.'' Crown counsel Graveney Bannister contested Mr. Wilson's plea for leniency.

"The crown is mindful the defendant has a clean record -- nevertheless such behaviour must be discouraged.

"But if any fine, it should be such that it deters the defendant from committing such offences again.'' Magistrate William Francis said: "I've listened to everything Ms Wilson said and I've noted what the social inquiry report said.'' Speaking directly to Cato, he said: "You cannot live in this life without being provoked. You have to learn to deal with it properly.

"This was a very serious injury (to the victim) but I've noted what the social inquiry report said and I've found that very helpful.'' In addition to a six-month suspended sentence, Cato was fined $300 to be paid by March or 20 days in prison.