Policemen arraigned in connection with burning detainee’s hands

Last Updated on Tuesday, 8 July 2014, 18:41 by GxMedia

Two policemen were Tuesday arraigned for charges in connection with the burning of a young man’s hands during the course of an investigation.

Constable Earwin  Forrester, 21,  was charged with causing grievous bodily harm to 19-year old Junior Torrington between May 25 and 27 while he was in custody at the Sparendaam Police Station.

Detective Inspector, Dexter Torrington, 41,  was charged with perverting the course of justice. He allegedly discussed a settlement and took GUY$100,000 from his cousin’s father to bring closure to the matter. The burn victim and the Inspector are cousins.

Sparendaam Magistrate, Sueanna Lovell granted GUY$125,000 bail to Forrester and GUY$100,000 to Torrington. They were ordered to return to court on August 18, 2014.

The Prosecutor told the court that the accused should have known better because the Guyana Police Force does no condone such acts. In particular, the prosecutor said Forrester should have exercises control and act in a professional manner when dealing with prisoners in his custody.

The boy alleged that he was also beaten by police after he was arrested for loitering. He was then accused by investigators of being involved in a robbery.

Torrington’s hands were allegedly soaked with methylated spirits and set ablaze by investigators. He was subsequently released from custody.