For over a decade, a high-ranking officer from the Royal St Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) has faced serious allegations of sexual harassment within the unit, yet the matter has remained largely unaddressed, until now.
Successive heads of the RSLPF have expressed their commitment to resolving this issue, but recent developments indicate a renewed urgency.
At a pre-cabinet briefing this week, Public Service Affairs Minister Dr. Albert-Poyotte addressed the accusations. She was pressed on previous and current developments as well as the status of the officer in question, including whether that individual should remain on active duty.
The minister clarified the department’s position regarding these allegations, emphasising, “We treat allegations as such until evidence is presented. It is imperative that any allegations made are substantiated so we can take appropriate action.”
Under her leadership, Dr. Albert-Poyotte insisted that the police department must first review the matter based on the actions taken by the current Commissioner of Police before pursuing any legal implications. “I maintain that sexual harassment, whether involving police officers or individuals in any other sector, will not be tolerated,” the minister asserted.
“Respect is non-negotiable. We expect all allegations to undergo due process, and justice must prevail.”
In this instance, would it be necessary to place the officer implicated in this matter, on administrative leave?
Regarding the accused officer, the minister stated, if necessary, the officer will be placed on administrative leave as soon as the investigation concludes. She added that this matter fell under the jurisdiction of the Police Commissioner for resolution.
In late August, the then-acting Commissioner of Police Crusita Descartes-Polius, provided updates to reporters about the ongoing investigation involving the senior officer.
“There has been no malice in my handling of this matter. Our priority has been to uphold the integrity of the RSLPF so that prospective victims can trust the organization and the judicial system.”
Current acting COP Verne Guard acknowledged the need for careful “due diligence” in dealing with such delicate matters, while noting that there is no set timeline for the investigation to reach a conclusion.
Minister Albert-Poyotte, stated that the current Sexual Harassment Policy must be aligned with other relevant legislation in the country.
“We have to comply with the ILO (International Labour Organization) convention,” the minister affirmed, adding that once Saint Lucia ratifies the ILO convention, all legislation and policies will be adjusted accordingly.
“We are vigorously pushing for the ratification of the ILO convention, and we are already taking concrete steps regarding policies like the Sexual Harassment Policy adopted by the police. This policy will extend beyond the police force, applying across the entire workforce to tackle sexual harassment in the workplace head-on,” she said.
Increasing public concern over allegations of sexual assault and harassment within the RSLPF has sparked urgent calls for accountability and a more thorough investigation into these serious claims.