Justice on trial - Hauntings of the Woolmer case and beyond
May 23, 2007
I followed with interest and sometimes wry amusement, the developing story regarding the unfortunate death of Bob Woolmer in Jamaica. I couldn't help but reflect on what would have been likely to happen had he died in a different place in Jamaica and the potential suspects of different circumstances.
After the carefully managed press conferences and the importation of additional investigative resources, what was previously a case of suspected murder is now said to be death by natural causes the police still maintain their stance.
Where a serious crime is suspected to have been committed police action is not only warranted, but generally expected. In this case, however, the police activity stopped short. No one was arrested or detained; no suspect made any accusation of heavy-handed police treatment. And that is how it should be. But it could have been different, as it so often is for local Jamaicans, particularly young men of poor circumstance.
In similar situations, what has happened, and what I am sure will happen again, is this:
1. A 'dragnet' would have been thrown or an area cordoned off by the police.
2. Approximately 26 youths could have been detained.
3. There would have been an initial interview (sometimes called interrogation) of each detainee to find out if any link could be made between him and the crime or if he could otherwise provide valuable information.
4. After about one week, a few lucky ones, it could be eight, with the help of their lawyers, their impoverished relatives' unrelenting visits to the stations, would break through the net.
Of course, for those who have now been released and those who remain in custody, the conditions of detention are often unspeakable:
Little or no contact with relatives.
A change of clothes allowed in once or twice per week (this is subject to change).
If you are lucky, food from home once or twice per week, to supplement the often unhygienic and insipid rations provided at the expense of the state.
Cold concrete to sleepon.
The constant stench of human faeces, urine and other unbearably foul odours.
Little or no lighting, day and night.
Poor ventilation.
Makeshift arrangements for sanitation and hygiene.
Overcrowding.
Constant fear of attacks from fellow detainees, as the degrading and dehumanising conditions bring out the best of the beast....
Author: Jacqueline Samuels-Brown
Source: Jamaica Gleaner
