(The Valley, Anguilla) – The Royal Anguilla Police Force issued the following statement on April 20th, 2019 in reference to the death of Mr. Kenny Mitchel in Anguilla and the American visitor, Gavin Scott Hapgood a UBS financial adviser who has been charged with the offence of manslaughter in this incident which occurred at a resort in West End, Anguilla.
Statement:
The Royal Anguilla Police Force conducted investigations into the circumstances surrounding the death of Mr. Kenny Mitchel. Having reviewed the evidence gathered in the process; in the form of statements and the pathology report, we later sought legal advice from the Attorney General Chambers as it related to this case as we are required to do by law. Based on the legal advice that was given a decision was made to charge Mr. Gavin Hapgood for the offence of manslaughter.
On April 16th, 2019, Mr. Hapgood was re- arrested and charged. He was then taken to the Magistrate Court on April 17th, 2019 where bail was denied, and he was remanded to Her Majesty’s Prison until August 22nd, 2019. On the same date Counsel for Mr. Hapgood made an application to The High Court Judge for consideration for the granting of bail to Mr. Hapgood. Counsel for the defendant was successful in his application which resulted in Mr. Hapgood being granted bail in the sum of $200,000.00 EC dollars to appear in court on August 22nd, 2019.
The RAPF has executed their function and likewise both courts adjudicated over the matter. This matter is now before a competent court and the law should be allowed to take its course without interference.
I am aware that members of the public have different views on the issue and you are entitled to your respective views and I respect your views, I also respect your fundamental rights of freedom of expression, all I am asking is that you do not say or do anything that can jeopardize the case and let the process take its course.
I sincerely thank the general public for their cooperation thus far.
Elliott ForbesCommissioner of Police (ag)
