Senior cop: Police responsible for well-being of prisoners
…DSP testifies on lockup policy in day two of Mario Deane case
Published:Saturday | March 8, 2025 | 12:08 AMChristopher Thomas/Gleaner Writer -
WESTERN BUREAU:
Deputy Superintendent of Police Kevin Francis, who was in charge of the Barnett Street Police Station when Mario Deane was brutally beaten in custody in August 2014, testified yesterday that the police are responsible for the well-being of prisoners in their care.
Speaking at the Westmoreland Circuit Court on the second day of the trial of Corporal Elaine Stewart and constables Juliana Clevon and Marlon Grant – the three officers implicated in Deane’s death – Francis detailed the protocols for overseeing lockups, which include securing prisoners, conducting cell checks, preventing contraband, and maintaining records.
“The lockup administration policy outlines the police’s responsibility from the moment a prisoner enters custody until release. It includes documentation of the prisoner’s biodata, charges, personal property, and overall well-being,” said Francis, who is now stationed at the Westmoreland divisional headquarters.
Francis stated that he was on sick leave in August 2014 and was not at the Barnett Street station at the time of Deane’s detention. He described the lockup’s management office as being attached to a derelict building where cell guards monitored prisoners and maintained records.
He emphasised that a subofficer – either a corporal or sergeant – was responsible for ensuring prisoners were properly admitted and safeguarded.
Francis is the second prosecution witness, following testimony from Deane’s mother, Mercia Fraser, on Thursday. His examination-in-chief continues when the trial resumes on Monday, March 10.
Stewart, Clevon, and Grant face charges of manslaughter, misconduct in public office, and attempting to pervert the course of justice. They were allegedly on duty when Deane was beaten in custody on August 3, 2014. He died three days later in the hospital.
It is further alleged that Stewart, the senior officer on duty, ordered the cell cleaned before Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) personnel arrived to examine the crime scene.