The BVI Health Services Authority (BVIHSA) and its Auditor Dian Fahie have publicly apologized to two BVI residents, Levor Lettsome and Cedorene Malone-Smith, for the harm caused by statements made in a Preliminary Audit Report circulated in November 2021.
The statements, which led to the abrupt suspension of both individuals from their roles, have now been retracted following a court ruling that found no wrongdoing on their part.
In joint statements released recently, the BVIHSA and Fahie expressed their “unequivocal apology” to Lettsome and Malone-Smith, acknowledging the harm, embarrassment, and inconvenience caused by the comments made in the internal audit report. The apology emphasized that it was never the intention of the BVIHSA or Fahie to cause any harm to either individual.
Lettsome, who served as the Human Resources Manager, and Malone-Smith, then acting Chief Executive Officer of the BVIHSA, were placed on non-disciplinary leave in 2021 after the audit accused them of misconduct in their respective roles. However, after a protracted legal battle, both individuals were cleared of any wrongdoing in court, validating their claims that the accusations were unfounded.
The court’s decision, along with the recent apology, has reinforced that the treatment of Lettsome and Malone-Smith by the BVIHSA was unjust and that the public defamation of their characters was unwarranted.
The apology and court victory marks a significant moment for Lettsome and Malone-Smith, who have maintained their innocence throughout the ordeal. Both are expected to move forward with their professional careers, now vindicated by the legal process and the public acknowledgement of their unjust treatment.