Lt Stitchie’s wife warns public about scammers

Sophia Laing, the wife of veteran dancehall-gospel singer Cleve 'Lt Stitchie' Laing is warning fans about giving donations to fraudulent pages soliciting funds to aid in his ongoing recovery.

An emotional Sophia told THE STAR that it breaks her heart to see scammers campaigning on TikTok, YouTube and GoFundMe to raise money for Stitchie, and "exploiting his name for personal gain".

"While it is true that Lt Stitchie still needs financial assistance for ongoing medical care, therapy, and general support, these fraudulent campaigns are doing real harm. They are confusing well-meaning supporters. They are redirecting funds away from legitimate efforts. And most importantly, they are preventing him from receiving the genuine help he truly needs," Sophia told THE STAR.

She outlined that the most recent scam involves a person on TikTok using a fake page to request US$9,000 (J$1.4 million) to buy a wheelchair for the singer, who was recently moved into another care facility where he continues to receive medical attention and support.

"We have already purchased his wheelchair. That claim is false," Sophia emphasised.

She had words of advice for those who continue to financially support Stitchie's road to recovery.

"We ask the public to exercise caution. Do not donate to unofficial pages. Do not share unverified links. Before contributing, confirm that the source is authorised by his immediate family or official representatives. We will always provide transparent and accurate information regarding his needs. To those responsible for these fraudulent claims: exploiting a man's illness and legacy for profit is not only unethical -- it is shameful."

The official GoFundMe page, titled 'Support Stitchie's rehabilitation journey', was set up by Sophia last year, with a goal of US$100,000 (J$15.6 million). To date US$27,696 (approximately J$4.3 million) has been raised, with the most recent donation made three weeks ago.

Giving an update on the health of the entertainer, who was hospitalised in late 2024 following a brain haemorrhage, Sophia revealed that Lt Stitchie is still not speaking.

"However, he is communicating through simple gestures. Though progress may seem gradual, it is important to understand the severity of the strokes he suffered last year. In light of that, we are encouraged by the slow but steady improvement we are seeing. Every small step forward is a victory," Sophia declared, stressing that she "gives God thanks and praise for bringing Lt Stitchie this far".

A dancehall artiste-turned-gospel minister, Lt Stitchie dominated the late 80s dancehall scene with his rapid-fire delivery and humorous lyrics. Hits like Wear Yuh Size and Natty Dread ensured the storybook success for the entertainer who was once a classroom teacher. He recorded 14 number one hits in a single calendar year and became one of the first dancehall artistes signed to Atlantic Records in 1988.

A near-fatal car crash in 1997, led to his conversion to Christianity, and he released his first gospel album, To God Be the Glory, in 1999. He was awarded an honorary doctorate from Cornerstone Christian University in 2012, then inducted into the Gospel Hall of Fame in 2016. In 2014, he wrote his autobiography, The Power of Determination. In October 2021, he was awarded the Order of Distinction in the Rank of Officer by Jamaican Government. Lt Stitchie was recognised for his impact on the creative industry, specifically reggae and dancehall music.