The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force have charged one of their fellow officers Sergeant Richard Francis for assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
This was revealed in a media release from the RVIPF on Thursday, which stated that the charges are from an incident which occurred earlier this year in February, that resulted in Francis being interdicted while investigation commenced.
“Charges laid against Officer Richard Francis stemmed from a domestic incident reported in February of this year. Investigations into allegations made resulted in subsequent charges,” the RVIPF stated.
Meanwhile, Commissioner of Police Mark Collins assured residents that all accusations against officers by members of the public will be thoroughly investigated and if there is evidence of an offence committed, officers will be suspended and possibly charged.
In communications with the Force, Collins reiterated the need for his officers to align their personal and public lives with the Force’s professional standards. He noted his firm stance that officers’ behaviour must be beyond reproach whether on or off duty.
Francis is now the second police officer to be charged in just under two weeks.
The RVIPF formally charged Sergeant Troy St. Helen, for his alleged involvement in January’s major cocaine drug bust of approximately 200 kilos.
He was charged on July 29 for possession of a controlled drug with intent to supply and being concerned in the supply of a controlled drug.
Commissioner Collins recently revealed in the ongoing Commission of Inquiry that a total of 9 police officer were interdicted pending investigations and possible charges.
He said he intends to rid the force of all corrupt or unfit police officers.