BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – THE Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force has issued a statement in response to remarks made by Dr. Timothy Harris, Leader of the People’s Labour Party (PLP), regarding their handling of communications with the family of the late political activist Azziwah Niles-Jones.
During a recent press conference, Dr. Harris criticized the police for what he claimed was a lack of updates provided to Niles-Jones' family about the progress of the investigation into his death. He called on the force to establish protocols for communicating with victims of crime without compromising the integrity of ongoing investigations.
“No explanation to the family who has been begging when they should not beg. The police must have a code of conduct that tells them how to respond when certain tragedies have occurred," Harris said.
He added:"I want today to call on the Commissioner of Police to have audience with the family of Azziwah Niles-Jones and to bring them up to date without jeopardising the investigation and how the investigation is progressing. If at all there has been any progress, no one should have to tell the Commissioner of Police that on certain crimes he has to keep a daily track of their progress. And it is a national shame and disgrace that the family is not getting even one call.”
On Saturday (Oct.19), the police force issued a statement "unequivocally" condemning Dr. Harris' allegations,calling them misleading and harmful.
“These allegations not only misrepresent the facts but also undermine the dedicated efforts of our officers who tirelessly work to resolve cases and support affected families,” the statement read.
The police emphasized that since the tragic incident on August 20, 2024, investigators have established and maintained multiple lines of communication with Niles-Jones' family. This includes home visits and individual discussions, with some meetings rescheduled at the family’s request due to the emotional toll they are experiencing.
Several questions have arisen since the police statement: Why were the allegations made, and what was intended to be gained by Dr Harris for making them?
Acknowledging the deep emotional distress caused by such a loss, the police reiterated that the well-being of victims' families is a priority.
The police emphasized that since the tragic incident on August 20, 2024, investigators have established and maintained multiple lines of communication with Niles-Jones' family. This includes home visits and individual discussions, with some meetings rescheduled at the family’s request due to the emotional toll they are experiencing.
