Statement regarding allegations of assault by police officers

FRIDAY, JULY 9: Good Morning Ladies and Gentlemen:

I speak to you in my role as Service Discipline Officer and I wish to make a few statements in relation to the allegations being made by Troy Smith in today’s Royal Gazette and on the ZBM news last night.

• Police officers in Bermuda are facing an unprecedented level of danger as they carry out their duties.
• Senior command recognises that our officers have been dedicated and courageous in performing their duties.
• We provide our officers with officer safety equipment so that they are able to protect themselves when faced with dangerous situations.
• We provide our officers with high levels of training so that they use the available officer safety equipment in a manner that is consistent with our policies and is in compliance with Bermuda’s law.
• We teach our officers how to use the officer safety equipment based on a use of force system so that they determine the appropriate level of response.
• We also have systems in place to review how we use force and to provide remedial training if officers do not comply with our policies and Bermuda laws.
• Now that we are aware of the full extent of the injuries suffered by Mr Smith, we have commenced a full investigation that will look into the circumstances; however we recognise that there are two sides to the story and we urge the public not to rush to judgement on this matter.
• The principles of natural justice will be applied and the officers will be treated as innocent and given the support of senior management inclusive of welfare; however, the officers will be removed from full operational duties until the investigation is completed.
• We cannot comment on any specifics of the case at this time as this matter is a criminal investigation.