It’s been a week since apologies by the Police Force of St. Maarten KPSM for forcing a male and a female detainee to strip naked in unrelated cases made the front page. The prevailing thought seems to be that more is needed, including holding those responsible accountable and taking steps to prevent a repeat.
Mind you, the latter was addressed in a letter to one of the affected persons reacting to his complaint by saying the order had been given “to make a protocol for searches of arrested suspects.” The public thus learned that – quite remarkably – there currently is none.
What do certainly exist are rules and regulations that require a valid reason (“probable cause”) and permission from the assistant prosecutor or examining judge, both of which appear to have been lacking. The officers involved were reportedly reprimanded, but the two victims’ lawyer thinks that is insufficient and Member of Parliament (MP) Sarah Wescot-Williams seemingly agrees (see last Wednesday’s edition).
She said anywhere else in the world “less serious infractions would have caused immediate suspensions, if not resignations.” The opposition member wants Justice Minister Anna Richardson to investigate and sent her several related questions.
For his part, the attorney called the misconduct not only inappropriate and immoral, but downright criminal. He holds KPSM liable for emotional damage suffered by his clients and wants a proposal for compensation.
But the most important thing is indeed ensuring these remain isolated incidents. Saying “sorry” is great, but as even a child already knows, one must also make – and keep – a promise never to do it again.
