BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, Jul. 11.2018 – WITH criticisms still being leveled against the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force over the death of Tau Johnson, Commissioner of Police, Ian Queeley says that a high-level investigation will be conducted into the incident.
Queeley made the announcement during a national statement sent to reporters yesterday, where he stated that on Saturday, July 07, 2018 a young man fleeing the police was involved in a fatal accident.
The Commissioner said he and the High Command of the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) wished to express their deepest condolences and sympathy to the family and friends of the deceased.
According to the top cop, a previous release was issued based on preliminary information and was done purely to keep the public informed.
He denied that any conclusions have been made into the incident, since information is still being gathered and more revealed.
According to a police release on the incident, Johnson, 20, was riding a motorcycle when police officers on patrol attempted to stop him but he instead fled. Police said they gave chase and Johnson, after some time, lost control of the motorcycle and fell.
Officers denied that their vehicle touched Johnson’s motorcycle.
However, many have questioned the police forces’ version of what transpired during the incident. It is bandied that the young man was bumped from behind, thus falling from the motorcycle.
Persons in the vicinity of the incident alleged that the officers were driving without their sirens on at the time of the incident, failing to signal that a chase was in progress.
Queeley however said, “We have found the concerns raised regarding this incident are very troubling. As the institution charged with investigating criminal matters, we have initiated a high-level investigation into the incident, given the serious allegations regarding the Police’s involvement.
He noted that following routine investigative practices, we have put a number of things in place and have taken several steps. Such steps include, but are not limited to the following:
1) An investigation team has been put together headed by a Senior Ranking Police Officer;
2) A retired Assistant Commissioner of Police with years of experience as an investigator has been engaged to provide advice;
3) All closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras along the route will be carefully reviewed;
4) The Police vehicle involved in the chase has been grounded for forensic analysis purposes;
5) An independent assessment of the motor cycle and the Police vehicle involved in the
chase will be conducted by a qualified mechanic and certified vehicle inspector;
6) After consultation with the Director of Public Prosecution, he has appointed a Crown Counsel who would serve to advise the investigation team;
7) An appeal has been made - and continues to be made - for any witnesses to the chase to contact the Traffic Department to give information;
According to Queeley, the investigation team will follow every lead and examine every piece of information received and evidence collected. The findings of the investigation upon completion will be made available.
