Commissioner of Police Crusita Descartes-Pelius’s tenure, which concluded last Saturday, was marked by significant challenges.
During her time in office, she spearheaded reforms to address workplace sexual harassment, leading to the creation of a Sexual Harassment Policy.
Her term in office was also notable for a public dispute with Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Daarsrean Greene regarding the controversial Operations Restore Confidence (OPR) operations from over a decade ago. These operations allegedly resulted in the deaths of suspects, with some Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) officers implicated in these shootings.’
There have been ongoing calls for justice for the alleged perpetrators. In a press conference earlier this year, the DPP urged the Commissioner to deal with the officers involved.
At a media briefing last week, the outgoing Commissioner revealed that since taking office, she had engaged in discussions with the said officers, the Police Welfare Association (PWA), the DPP, and the investigators reassigned to review the matter.
“I have not at any time had oversight of the files to decide as to the way forward,” she explained.
Descartes-Pelius mentioned that since the DPP’s press conference, she has “yet to receive written communication regarding his recommendations.” She added that it would be inappropriate for her to respond to statements made at the press conference, or on radio, social media, as informal discussions.
“Any actions I take must be based on formal written directives,” she emphasised. She noted that in the past, she had received “official communication” from the DPP on matters where police allegedly fatally wounded individuals during the OPR operation, indicating which officers were cleared.
As a result, these officers received letters from the Commissioner’s office regarding this decision, “and I would expect the same direction if criminal charges have been recommended against anyone by the Director of Public Prosecutions.”
Regarding more recent police shootings, including the death of teenager Arnold Joseph, Descartes-Pelius stated that these cases require “further external consultation” and evidence reviews, which are currently underway.
She also mentioned that other homicide cases are under review, awaiting “external partners to provide the expertise and assistance not currently available in Saint Lucia.” She highlighted that officers are working diligently “to expedite the results being made available, to advance their investigations.”
The top cop also commented on the issue of sexual harassment within the RSLPF, expressing her deep sadness that her tenure has been marred by these allegations.
Descartes-Pelius emphasised her commitment to bringing redress to the impacted individuals. She explained that she has completed a Sexual Harassment Policy to govern the conduct of all officers and establish proper official protocols for dealing with such matters within the organisation.
This policy document is currently under review by stakeholders, including the PWA, RSLPF’s executive, the Ministry of Home Affairs, and others.
Regarding the controversial and prolonged issue of sexual harassment accusations against a ranked police officer, Descartes-Pelius stated, “I have also initiated a formal investigation into reports made by individuals against a senior officer …and at this time, there is nothing more I can say with regards to these matters.”
The outgoing COP added that necessary support is being provided to all involved individuals and that the investigations are progressing. Officers are working diligently to expedite the results and advance their investigations.