A 23-year-old man who was arrested and charged for a recent burglary in Carellie, Castries could press charges against the men who were seen assaulting him in the video that went viral on the internet.
Police Public Relations Officer Zachary Hippolyte told St. Lucia News Online (SNO) that Benjamin Joseph could pursue this matter by lodging an official report with the police.
Until such time, the police will not be able to charge anyone, he said. However, once it is reported, it will be duty of the police to investigate this matter within the framework of the laws of Saint Lucia.
Hipployte had told SNO in a previous interview, that persons cannot fight crime by committing another crime, noting that there are laws to protect each individual right.
“This is the reason why we are guided by laws. And if we are a society that contributes or we promote committing a crime to fight crime, then we definitely will never, never put a dent on crime, because you are committing a crime to try and stop crime, so you’re adding onto the crime problem.” Hipployte said.
Reports are that Joseph gained entry through a window in the bottom flat of the Carellie house. A friend of the owner reportedly came into contact with him when he visited the home.
The trespasser attempted to flee, but neighbours managed to tie him up. He had in his possession, cash and other items, including a TV remote control, that were stolen from the house.
He was handed over to the police, but not before residents beat him with the use of tree branches.
Joseph was charged for the offences of stealing from dwelling house and damage to property.
On Sept. 14 he was granted $1,500 bail.
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