On Monday the 20th of January, an independent panel determined that Constable Oswin Pereira of the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) had used unnecessary force during an arrest in May 2017.

Furthermore, that he breached honesty and integrity demonstrating levels of premeditated behaviours that brought discredit on the BPS which amounted to gross misconduct.

The panel found PC Pereria’s actions fell well below the Standards of Professional Behaviour expected and had no option but to dismiss him from service without notice.

Another officer, PC Boden, was cleared of any wrongdoing in connection with this matter.

Head of Professional Standards Detective Superintendent Gillian Murray said:

“Our officers work hard to maintain the confidence of the public, and often have to make split second decisions in very demanding and stressful situations.  However, with regards to PC Pereira the panel felt the officers’ actions in these circumstances fell well below what is expected.

There is no place in the Bermuda Police Service for those who abuse that trust leaving the panel no choice but to find the allegations against PC Pereira proven and to dismiss him with immediate effect.”

Commissioner of Police Stephen Corbishley added:

“Whilst this incident took place over 2 years ago, and its examination was delayed through a number of different legal processes, it demonstrates the panel’s consideration to the high standards of professionalism and integrity that local communities expect of police officers."