The investigations are an evolving discussion, she says, clarifying that select police officers have been cleared of suspicion. At the appropriate time, the Commissioner contends, more information will be given to the public.
“ORC is a very sensitive discussion…as much as the members of the public want the information, but because of the nature of it, I would not like as this moment to delve into the way forward. There are discussions about it. [One must remember] the parties involved are serving members of the [RSLPF],” Commissioner Pelius explained.
She divulged that the offices of the DPP and Police Commissioner are in constant dialogue regarding the ORC deaths.
“The DPP and [the Office of the Commissioner] have had discussions on the way forward as it relates to these matters (the Reginald Jean killing, and others).”
Pelius clears the air regarding the promotion of officers implicated in ORC. She explains that promotions are not withheld from implicated officers involved in ORC. However, implicated officers who have aired their frustrations previously to the media have bemoaned that they have not received promotions for nearly ten years.
“The officers implicated in OR are not prevented from being promoted. Officers participate in promotion examinations. An officer who has not been promoted does not mean he or she is implicated. I can tell you that they have been given the green light to participate in whatever we have for officers who are serving currently.”
She disclosed that to date, another officer involved in the operation has been cleared of suspicion.
“The matters relating to Operation Restore Confidence, as you know, are being dealt with by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. If any officer is given a letter, it would have to be from the DPP’s Office. As it relates to [ORC], we did not find sufficient evidence to continue the investigation relating to this individual.”
Despite continuing investigations, she explains that the implicated officers remain on duty.
“Majority of the officers implicated in ORC are at work - they are at different stations. On our records, they are supposed to be on duty; the officers are recorded to be on duty.”
Commissioner Pelius says an update to the public will be forthcoming once more information can be given.