Deputy Commissioner of Police Mike Jackman – Good Morning Ladies and Gentlemen: I speak to you in my role as Service Discipline Officer and I wish to make a few statements in relation to the allegations being made by Troy Smith in today’s Royal Gazette and on the ZBM news last night.

• Police officers in Bermuda are facing an unprecedented level of danger as they carry out their duties.
• Senior command recognises that our officers have been dedicated and courageous in performing their duties.
• We provide our officers with officer safety equipment so that they are able to protect themselves when faced with dangerous situations.
• We provide our officers with high levels of training so that they use the available officer safety equipment in a manner that is consistent with our policies and is in compliance with Bermuda’s law.
• We teach our officers how to use the officer safety equipment based on a use of force system so that they determine the appropriate level of response.
• We also have systems in place to review how we use force and to provide remedial training if officers do not comply with our policies and Bermuda laws.
• Now that we are aware of the full extent of the injuries suffered by Mr Smith, we have commenced a full investigation that will look into the circumstances; however we recognise that there are two sides to the story and we urge the public not to rush to judgement on this matter.
• The principles of natural justice will be applied and the officers will be treated as innocent and given the support of senior management inclusive of welfare; however, the officers will be removed from full operational duties until the investigation is completed.
• We cannot comment on any specifics of the case at this time as this matter is a criminal investigation.
• We will liaise with the Police Complaints Authority to apprise them of the investigation and once the investigation is completed, we will send the file to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for advice.