AFTER a series of voice notes were circulated on social media, Police Commissioner Clayton Fernander issued a statement on Friday to say that a senior officer has gone on garden leave while an investigation takes place.
The voice notes involved the officer in charge of the Criminal Investigation Department, Chief Superintendent Michael Johnson.
Commissioner Fernander said: "In response to the recent circulation of voice notes involving Chief Superintendent Michael Johnson, Officer-in-Charge of the Criminal Investigation Department, I want to assure the public that the Royal Bahamas Police Force takes these allegations very seriously. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and professionalism within our ranks."
He added: "Chief Superintendent Michael Johnson has consented to proceed on garden leave in the first instance, pending a thorough investigation into this matter.
"To ensure continuity and uphold our commitment to public safety, Chief Superintendent Anthon Rahming will assume the responsibilities of the Officer-in-Charge of the Criminal Investigation Department during this period."
The allegations surrounded a series of voice notes purportedly involving Chief Supt Johnson in conversation with an accused criminal.
Commissioner Fernander added: "The Royal Bahamas Police Force remains dedicated to transparency, accountability, and the trust placed in us by the Bahamian people. We will continue to provide updates as the investigation progresses and ensure that appropriate actions are taken based on the findings."
On a previous matter before the commissioner, there is still no update on a decision regarding recommendations from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions concerning the potential criminal prosecution over police killings that received adverse inquest findings within the last year.
On April 9 this year, the commissioner received those recommendations, but when asked about it since has only said to "stand by".
The cases include the deaths of Deangelo Evans, Shanton Forbes and Dino Bain, which were found to be homicide by manslaughter at the Coroner's court.
Comments
ThisIsOurs 4 months, 2 weeks ago
What this about? Is there an allegation that the voice note is fake? That's it's not him? What was discussed in the voice note?
TalRussell 4 months, 2 weeks ago
Can you collect additional paychegues while on garden leave? -- Policemans' whilst still on the PopoulacesPurse, but without having to report for work duties whilst placed on Garden Leave. -- Not making this up. -- Yes?
pt_90 4 months, 2 weeks ago
Typical Garden leave is you get paid to stay home. Not sure what the police does.
ThisIsOurs 4 months, 2 weeks ago
It's fine fo collect a pay cheque while under investigation because you may be found innocent and should not suffer harm if you are. I personally believe this should be followed in parliament, Adrian Gibson and Kirk Cornish should not be allowed to speak on anybody's behalf or appear in Parliament until their court matters are complete, but yes pay their salary. Someone else not under investigation should be given the responsibility.
hrysippus 4 months, 2 weeks ago
Quis custodiet ipsos custodes? In this case it would appear that custodes ipsos custodes? This begs the question of whether the public will have trust in the inevitable result of the allegations being found to have no merit?
ThisIsOurs 4 months, 2 weeks ago
Anyone considering themselves accused on trumped up charges should have already made a statement that that wasnt me. If the Commissioner allows this to linger for more than a week...
I said at the time they made those boys sit in a room with senior officers to talk about gangs and killings and where weapons were coming from, how dumb is that, who knows they might have spotted their boy pass the door wearing red striped pants. But suppose their boy was in the room?
ExposedU2C 4 months, 2 weeks ago
Yet more gaslighting by The Tribune.
birdiestrachan 4 months, 2 weeks ago
Innocent until proven guilty still stands just wait until some one imitates some one who they worship , do not pass judgment on this man without more investigations
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