Outcomes - Selected Case Summaries
Categories
Duty of care
Investigation | 03 September 2018
Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS)
An individual was arrested by two police officers in relation to an allegation of assault. During the arrest, the accused was denied the use of bathroom facilities prior to the journey to the Fairbanks Detention Centre. The person defecated in the back of the police car en route to the Detention Centre. On arrival at the Detention Centre CCTV footage showed the accused naked and handcuffed in the custody area. The Ombudsman investigation concluded that although the arrest of the individual was lawful, and the amount of force used by the arresting officers was reasonable, there was a lack of care demonstrated towards the prisoner. The actions of the officers were at odds with the RCIPS’ vision, mission and values. She found the arresting officers failed to demonstrate respect, courtesy and professionalism towards the prisoner in their care.
The Ombudsman recommended the Commissioner of Police consider disciplinary action against the arresting officers. The Police Commissioner accepted the Ombudsman’s conclusions and recommendations.