Ministry of National Security Media Conference – Monday February 15th 2021

Key Points from the Ministry of National Security’s Media Conference – Monday February 15th, 2021:

Minister of National Security, Stuart Young, addressed the deaths of Andrew Morris and Joel Belcon while in police custody. The two were held for the kidnapping and murder of 23 year old court clerk Andrea Bharatt.

Minister Young highlighted a “most disturbing report” that was published in the newspapers this weekend which indicated that Mr. Morris was beaten to death. He said the allegations are concerning, and he urged persons who may have video recordings of the beating to take them to the relevant authorities.

Minister Young met with Police Commissioner Gary Griffith and his three Acting DCPs today on this matter. He was told there was an ongoing active investigation by the Police Complaints Authority. The TTPS Professional Standards Bureau is also involved and Homicide officers have also appointed to probe the deaths of Morris and Belcon.

To date, 10 to 12 reports have been generated on this matter and sent to the Police Complaints Authority regarding the deaths of the two men in police custody. However, no one has come forward with video recordings on the beatings.

Minister Young said he received assurances from the Police Commissioner that the TTPS is taking the investigation seriously. The Police Commissioner also noted that 96 police officers involved in misconduct during his tenure have been suspended or charged for committing certain acts.

Minister Young said at this time there is no need for a foreign team to investigate the death of two suspects in police custody since the PCA has all the power the investigate this matter thoroughly.

Minister Young stated that the Special Operations Response Team (SORT), the Inter Agency Task Force (IATF), and the Guard and Emergency Branch (GEB) will receive body cameras. The Police Commissioner is responsible for distribution.

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