Policeman acquitted of assault
A member of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force was reinstated last month, more than one month after he had been acquitted of a criminal charge.
Police Constable Derville Thomas was granted permission to return to work on August 18, after more than two and a half months on suspension with half-month salary.{{more}}
Thomas was arrested and charged by his colleagues for allegedly assaulting Ian Samuel of Biabou, causing him actual bodily harm on May 29 this year. He was taken before the Calliaqua Magistrate Court where he pleaded not guilty to the charge and was released on bail in his own recognisance.
It was alleged that, following the burial of Thomasâs aunt at Biabou, there was a get together at a relativeâs home in Biabou. Samuel, who was driving a vehicle, complained and rowed about the manner in which a number of vehicles were parked in the area. As a result, PC Thomas went and spoke to Samuel who pulled a bottle at him. During a struggle, Samuel was struck in the face.
The suspended officer appeared in court for trial on June 11. He was acquitted of the charge that day, but was not reinstated until August 18.
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