A Bermuda Police First – Officers Fire Upon Suspects
It is reported in the press that, having been shot at 24/08/2024, ‘Police officers … fired back at the suspects as they fled the scene‘ (source).
- Apparently, this is the first time officers have discharged their weapons at others in the line of duty.
There should now follow an enquiry to determine whether the officer followed firearm protocols. The use of firearms is generally considered a last resort, employed only in situations where there is an imminent threat to life. The review will likely consider whether firing at suspects (plural) satisfies the protocol requirements and may take into consideration whether the discharge was proportionate to the threat posed. Apparently, as they ran and evaded capture, shots were fired at the officers.
Use of firearms has understandably long been the subject of documented advice and directions. For example, the 2003 ACPO (Association of Chief Policy Officers – UK) can be read here acpo-firearms-2003 and includes reference to when weapons may be fired, ‘oral warning’ and the training the officers have received.
The press report can be read in full here.
The press conference text ‘A New Level of Violence’ can be read here.
04/09/2024 a teenager (18 years) is remanded in custody accused in relation to the 24/08/2024 shooting (read more here).
