St. John’s Antigua- The arrest of a long-serving corporal of police for attempted rape and serious indecency brings the number of lawmen charged for crimes in the past few months to eight.

The officer, whose name is withheld because of rules contained in the Sexual Offences Act, alleged committed the crimes on June 30 in the Bendals area.

Details remained sketchy at press time as the police Strategic Communications (STRATCOM) department issued a statement about the incident but gave no details other than the aforementioned.

The officer, who has been in the force for over 10 years, is expected in court next week.

A day earlier, two constables were arrested for causing grievous bodily harm to a Hispanic man whom they allegedly beat causing bones to be broken and internal bleeding.

Leon Alves and Timothy Phillip were granted bail yesterday.

In light of the recent developments, STRATCOM issued the following statement.

“The Acting Commissioner of Police, Henry Christian, wishes to reassure the general public of the police administration’s commitment to this nation, in ensuring law and order is maintained.”

He further stated, “We as police officers are called upon to uphold the law, and any member of this organisation who breeches the law will be dealt with accordingly.”

Currently one police officer is on remand for murder, while there are others on bail for unrelated crimes of aggravated robbery, fraud and larceny. One officer was convicted for marijuana possession two months ago.

In face of the development, the acting Commissioner added, “The general public is therefore encouraged to continue to lend their full support to the police force as we strive to provide a high quality of service to the citizens and residents  of Antigua & Barbuda.”

Tags: commissioner of police | grievous bodily harm | hispanic man | lawmen | marijuana possession | police administration | sexual offences | STRATCOM | unrelated crimes