Three members of Vybz Kartel's Portmore Empire Crew who are accused of attacking a Bahamian Pilot on Monday at the LPIA (Lynden Pindling International Airport) appeared in court on Wednesday (August 18, 2010). The men were in New Providence to entertain a large crowd of dancehall fans at a birthday bash at the Luna Night Club this past weekend. The experienced turned sour when the Empire Crew artists found themselves behind bars.

Ainsley Morris (24), André Sutherland (22) and Lenburgh McDonald (26) all of St Catherine Jamaica appeared before the Magistrate to answer to the charges of attacking Bahamian pilot Tameko Bannister at LPIA and causing damage inside the Airport terminal building.

It is alleged that the men got into a fight with the Spirit Airline Pilot after he asked why there were women in the men’s restroom with them. The pilot reportedly left the restroom after a member of the group started to shout obscenities at him. The pilot reportedly told police that when he returned to use the bathroom another time one of the women who is a part of the group was hit by the bathroom door. It was at that point Bannister said one of the group members slapped him in the face and punched him in his left eye. Witnesses say the brawl ended in the lounge of the departure terminal alarming hundreds of passengers.

The story according to the attorney representing the men (Willie Moss) the incident didn't play out exactly like the pilot is claiming. Moss said the incident occurred when the Pilot ordered the group out of the restroom. He said that one of the group members only approached Bannister after drinks were spilled on the female member of the group and it was at that point Bannister was punched in the face. Moss said Bannister then in turn threw a punch at another group member knocking him unconscious. Moments later he said Banister ran out of the restroom and called for security. Other members of the group had already boarded the plane when Bannister pointed the men out to security.

Mr. Moss told the Magistrate that the men were extremely embarrassed about the situation and were willing to pay for any damages. “I am asking the court not to proceed with sentencing. A criminal record could prevent them from performing throughout the world. They know that they have embarrassed their group and their country,” said Mr. Moss.

Morris and McDonald pleaded guilty to the charges of damage and grievous harm and are expected to return to court this morning. Meanwhile Sutherland pleaded not guilty to the charges and was acquitted of all charges.

Vybz Kartel has reportedly denied any involvement in the incident.