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by pltm
(PLTM) - Denzil Wheatley has been found guilty on three charges of assault, with intent to prevent lawful apprehension, against three officers of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force. Magistrate Ayanna Baptiste-Dabreo made her decision in the matter earlier today, April 26, when the accused made an appearance before the court. According to the court, the charges carry a penalty of two years maximum sentence, or a fine of up to $2000. Wheatley, who is currently serving time at Her Majesty’s Prison in relation to another matter, will make another appearance on September 19th for sentencing. In an earlier appearance, Wheatley accused one of the witnesses, a police officer, of lying, adding that their story was not adding up. According to the witness’ evidence, on December 30th 2011, officers, including himself, journeyed to Baugher’s Bay at the Alexandrina Maduro Primary School, where they saw the accused and his 12 month old baby girl. After cautioning the accused and informing him of a burglary matter, they requested that he accompany them back to the Road Town Police Station. The accused allegedly stated, “Why y'all don’t stop f***ing harassing me.” In making attempts to arrest Wheatley, the court heard that he said, “Which one of you will put your f***ing handcuff on me.” Allegedly, the officer swiftly grabbed his hand behind his back, which resulted in the accused spinning around and knocking him in the chest. A struggle ensued and both the accused and the officer fell to the ground. Other officers began to assist, subdued the accused and placed him in handcuffs. While placing him in police vehicle, he allegedly kicked another police officer in the chest and chucked another in the chest. While at the police station, the officer recalled that the accused threatened him by stating that he [police] should watch his back whenever he is in the area of Baugher’s Bay. In cross examining the witness, Wheatley made mention of his 12 month old baby being on his side when the officers arrived, adding that all the struggle the officer described did not happen. In questioning the officer as to where his daughter was at the time of the struggle, the officer noted he does not remember, adding that she was just standing there. Wheatley also questioned the officer as to the possibility of someone who is handcuffed chucking another person in their chest, as outlined in his testimony to the court. The officer noted that it is possible. Minutes after, the officer informed the court that he was having difficulty remembering details due to time. He noted that he couldn’t remember at what point exactly or how the other officer was chucked in his chest. Wheatley also denied ever threatening any officer. The accused chose to remain silent in the matter, not giving any witness to the event.
