A police officer attached to the Besson Street Police Station, in the Port-of-Spain Division, was charged yesterday, July 21st, 2023, following investigations into an incident in which a woman was allegedly physically removed from a police station.
NO.18574 PC AARON McCLEAN was formally charged by W/Ag Cpl Marshall for the offence of Misbehaviour in Public Office, following advice from the office of the Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, Mrs. Joan Honore-Paul. The officer was also charged with Assault Occasioning Bodily Harm.
According to police reports, around 1:40 am on Saturday 8th July 2023, a woman went to the Besson Street Police Station, to make a report. While at the reception area, the woman met two male officers. When the woman attempted to make her report, one of the officers allegedly told her in an aggressive tone to return later to make the report. Shortly after, one of the officers allegedly grabbed her and forcibly removed her from the reception area unto the road.
The woman was subsequently assisted by other officers attached to the Besson Street Police Station, who took her to the Port of Spain General Hospital, where she received medical attention, and a medical certificate was later obtained on her behalf.
On Thursday 13th July 2023, the victim made a report to the Professional Standards Bureau (PSB) and an investigation was immediately launched into the matter. Following extensive investigations by officers of the PSB, No.18574 PC McClean was arrested on Tuesday 18th July 2023.
The investigation was spearheaded by Woman Senior Superintendent Suzette Martin, supervised by Superintendent Montrichard, W/ASP Francis and included W/ Ag Cpl Marshall.