The Tribune

By LYNAIRE MUNNINGS


Tribune Staff Reporter


lmunnings@tribunemedia.net

THE police officer accused of slapping a man during a Bahamas National Basketball Team game in July is now facing proceedings before the Police Tribunal, Commissioner of Police Shanta Knowles revealed yesterday.

Commissioner Knowles said the matter had progressed to the tribunal, which she likened to a magistrate’s court, and said the outcome would be made public once the proceedings were completed.

Ms Knowles said the Royal Bahamas Police Force does not condone such conduct and investigates officers when incidents of that nature occur.

Her comments provide the latest development in a case that drew public scrutiny after video of the July incident circulated widely on social media.

The footage showed a police officer in a khaki uniform slapping a man in a crowded area near the bleachers during a Bahamas National Basketball Team game.

Two officers were seen with the man, with one holding both of his hands while the other appeared to search him. The officer in khaki was then seen slapping him, prompting an audible reaction from spectators.

Police had responded to an altercation in the stands. Other videos circulating online appeared to show the same man being attacked by several other men before officers intervened.

At the time, Deputy Assistant Commissioner of Police Anthony Rolle said the force did not condone the officer’s conduct and confirmed that the Complaints and Corruption Unit was investigating.

The incident prompted criticism online, with some questioning the officer’s use of force after the man appeared to have already been restrained.