Antigua and Barbuda: OMDCP officer suspended from duty due to involvement in threatening audio recordings

Antigua and Barbuda: An Office of National Drug and Money Laundering Control Policy (ONDCP) officer has been suspended from duty following an investigation into threatening audio recordings that were widely circulated on the internet the previous year.

A statement was issued a short while ago from the body which is responsible for fighting illegal drugs and money laundering in the country.

In the spring last year, voice messages which appeared to be from a member of the ONDCP issuing threats to multiple people shocked the nation.

ONDCP director Lieutenant Colonel Edward Croft announced in May 2021 that a probe had been launched.

On June 02, 2022 (Thursday), he said, the suspension of the officer in question followed a written report by an independent investigative panel consisting of three reputable officials from the judiciary and other government departments.

Upon receipt of the report, he said an independent adjudicator concluded adjudication proceedings to determine the appropriate action.

Colonel Croft described the contents of the audio recordings as unbecoming of a member of the ONDCP and said, as a result of the officer’s conduct, the reputation and standing of the law enforcement agency had been negatively impacted.

Disciplinary penalties contained within the body’s Disciplinary Code include a fine, reprimand, suspension, or termination.

Colonel Croft said he had determined that suspension and severe reprimand were the most appropriate punishment.

He added that the officer-involved would be required to undergo counselling aimed at restoring the trust and respect of the nation.