BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – A sworn officer of the law, Constable Timothy Abbott, was slapped with a nine-month prison sentence two weeks ago for fraudulent conversion after being arrested and charged on August 10, 2010.
This media house learnt that Abbott was accused of taking monies from a number of persons who had applied to the Force for the acquisition of licenced firearms.
He was further accused of taking monies from some people under the pretext of legally purchasing their firearms from the US, among other countries, after they would have acquired their firearm licence.
Prior to his arrest, he was suspended on half pay and, after being charged, he was placed on bail in the sum of $100 000 with two sureties.
Speaking with Commissioner of Police Austin Williams on how he feels about the action taken against one of his charges who had violated the law he sworn to upkeep, he said that like any other matter, any report made is investigated and the appropriate action would be taken where necessary.
“We always say that nobody is above the law and anyone who commits a breach of the law will be dealt with to the fullest extent of the law,” Williams said.
The Commissioner said although he would not pinpoint any specific case, anyone who violates the law would be investigated and prosecuted if necessary.
