A case of road rage resulting in an assault on a Police officer, landed a Hamilton Parish man a $1,000 fine and a tongue lashing from a magistrate when he appeared in Magistrates' Court yesterday.

Michael Shaki Talbot, 22, of Trinity Church Road, pleaded guilty to unlawful wounding, but not guilty to wilful unlawful damage of property on January 16.

Acting Senior Magistrate Carlisle Greaves said road rage was a world-wide problem that needed to be curbed.

Talbot was also charged with offensive words on January 16.

He pleaded not guilty.

The court heard that Talbot was riding behind an off-duty officer, P.c. David Strong around 7.30 p.m., when P.c. Strong made a turn onto Dundonald Street, in Hamilton.

It was alleged by Talbot that the officer did not indicate the turn, cutting him off.

Talbot flagged down Strong and an argument ensued, resulting in Talbot slapping the officer and punching him in the face.

As a result, P.c. Strong sustained a cut, swelling and bruising to his right eye and broken eyeglasses.

Eventually a rider, who was an acquaintance of Talbot intervened, preventing Talbot from causing further damage.

Talbot and the passing rider fled the scene, but not before P.c. Strong managed to get the license plate of his cycle.

Talbot was eventually arrested and questioned in relation to the incident.

In his defence, Talbot said that he did not appreciate the tone of the officer's voice during the discussion about the officer's driving technique and so he reacted by assaulting him.

Mr. Greaves said: "You know what they call this - road rage - that is dead serious. You fellas are dangerous. You shouldn't be on the road. The world has got to take this road rage serious. You should be slammed hard. I fine you $1,000 and I want it today or go to jail. I want the message sent strong and clear."

Mr. Greaves set a May 3, court date for the unlawful damage and the offensive words.