ACP Henry (right)
As a result of an increasing number of requests an queries from members of the public, government and law enforcement sources, St. Lucia News Online (SNO) has made an official request from the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force regarding widespread allegations that an investigation was launched into the disappearance of a quantity of cash from the exhibit room of the Vieux-Fort Police Station.
In response, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) in charge of Territorial Policing, Frances Henry, did not confirm or deny that such an investigation is underway. She however, asked for “time” to confirm that such an investigation is underway.
“We presently are trying to ascertain your assertions, therefore time is needed to appraise the situation, establish the facts and prepare an official response,” Francis said through her press officer, Zachary Hippolyte on Friday morning, June 5.
On Thursday, SNO submitted questions to the press department by email on the matter.
Below are the questions:
1. Were the monies recovered? And if they were recovered, how were they returned?
2. How much monies were missing? I understand it was about $14,000 EC. Others say is it is $9,000.
3. Can you confirm that the monies are in relation to monies recovered from the assailants in the armed robbery of the Mon Repos Credit Union in 2011?
4. I understand that a veteran officer (rank removed for legal reasons) is the one being investigated. Is this true?
5. Is it true that the monies were returned but with different serial numbers?
6. Is it true that the case file for this missing funds investigation has been sent to the DPP who will review the documents and decide whether charges will be filed?
7. Can the COP or the Police Department reiterate its commitment to rooting out corruption and be fair and honest with the press?
SNO had received several queries about the missing funds.
“Why haven’t we heard about the $14,000 which disappeared from the Vieux Fort station? Shouldn’t there be a criminal investigation even if the money was returned albeit bearing different serial numbers?” one source said.
“Tell us about the $14,000.00 exhibit in the case of robbery at the Mon Repos Credit Union,” another inquired.
This allegation comes to light three days after Alexander announced at a press conference that three officers were charged in connection with the disappearance of monies from the Richfond Police Station in Dennery in 2010. The missing funds were reportedly proceeds of maintenance and commitment warrants.