S2.E20: Shoplifting Cop & Her Punishment, Or Lack Thereof?

The Big Issues

The case of a policewoman caught shoplifting has created controversy in recent days as the severity of the consequences she ought to have faced for the offense became a subject of great debate both within and outside the police force according to media reports. One paper, POINTE EXPRESS, reported that after what it termed “countless appeals to Commissioner of Police Atlee Rodney for leniency on behalf of the 56-year-old corporal”, the decision was taken to “allow her to resign” instead of being fired, so as to avoid losing her pension. In this episode, we ask: What fate should have befallen the cop? And can it ever be truly ensured that there is no double standard when the police are tasked with pursuing one of their own?

This programme first aired on NewsCo Observer Radio 91.1 FM on February 6th, 2022. The host is Kieron Murdoch. The guests are:

1. Nuffield Burnette, former Assistant Commissioner of Police. He is now retired from the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, and is a frequent commentator on issues of crime, policing and public safety.
2. Brenton Smith, policeman in St. Vincent and the Grenadines (currently on leave); President of the Police Welfare Association in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Get the latest news from Antigua and Barbuda at the Antigua Observer online.