Byron Buckley, News Editor
NO ONE has been found responsible for the deaths of three inmates and one correctional officer as well as injuries to several persons during a riot at the Tower Street Adult Correctional Centre on March 31, this year.
However, the police are "to have a more detailed investigation conducted to determine whether any person or persons should be charged with a criminal offence," National Security Minister Dr. Peter Phillips advised the House of Representatives yesterday. He was tabling a report on an enquiry into the fateful incident.
DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES
Furthermore, the minister said the finding of the enquiry have been referred to the Office of the Services Commission "for their attorneys to assess and determine whether it would be appropriate for disciplinary procedures to commence in respect of correctional officers who may have breached standard operating procedures."
While confirming the riot was a failed attempt at a mass prison escape, the investigation pointed out that the fatal beating of one of the ring leaders, Jeffrey Jones, "is a direct violation of his human rights."
The report further noted: "There was the breach of inmates' human rights by correctional officers. Inmates stated that they were taken from their cells after the incident and were physically abused."
Phillips told Parliament that a Coroner's Inquest into the deaths may become necessary following further investigations by the police.
Recommendations
The 23 recommendations of the enquiry include:
Installation of surveillance cameras to cover the gate lodge as well as the main and pedestrian walk through gates.
No assignment to the gate lodge of inmates on firearm charges.
More thorough enforcement of all vehicles entering and leaving the prison.
Hand-held and base-station radios are to be issued to the correctional officers assigned to key positions such as gate lodge, centre boxes, patrol and escort duties.
Fast tracking the existing weapons training and reclassification programme for all correctional officers assigned armed duties. Compliance certificates will be issued and a schedule of officers certified to use weapons is to be posted at each correctional facility.
A total of 24 inmates were injured, three fatally, during the attempted prison break. The instigators were armed with a .38 revolver. The dead inmates were Richard Harrison, Jeffrey Jones and Kemar Cotterell.
Three correctional officers were injured, one of whom - Maurice Whittingham - died. A probation officer was also shot, but was treated and sent home. A male visitor to the institution was also shot and injured.
