Former Magistrate Tyanni Behanzin has given the government seven days to launch an investigation by an “international team” into allegations of the mistreatment of inmates at the state prison.
The ultimatum was given after a visit on Wednesday by Behanzin to the institution at Stock Farm where he said prisoners claimed they were being mistreated.
According to Behanzin, the inmates claimed to have been beaten and threatened to have their meals poisoned.
While being tight-lipped about exactly what transpired within the walls of the prison during his visit, Behanzin claimed to have seen several marks on the prisoners’ bodies.
“There are allegations of serious beating and mistreatment. There is an allegation of an unlawful shooting. That matter was supposedly investigated but not to the satisfaction of the individual concerned because these people (prisoners) are as far as society is concerned, notorious characters,” Behanzin said.
He has given authorities seven days to launch an investigation into the matter; failure to do so, according to Behanzin, will prompt further action.
Behanzin said investigations into the alleged mistreatment of prisoners should be led by an international team.
“Our entire system cannot be trusted until we get a clearance that these allegations are either false or denied. If they are confirmed, the officers responsible should be fired. If the prisoners are found to be telling untruths, they should be dealt with,” he said.
But National Security Minister, Charles Savarin, said there have been no reports of ill-treatment at the country’s prison suggesting that the former magistrate and now attorney could be seeking media attention.
“I have no information about any ill treatment of prisoners at the state’s prison,” Savarin said.
He also described claims made by prisoners to have their food poisoned as as “preposterous.”
“I think if Behanzin has any such information, he should report the matter to the police because that would be criminal conspiracy. If he is aware of any such conspiracy, he has the responsibility to report it to the police,” the National Security Minister pointed out.
In response to the notice of the ultimatum Savarin said “If he has given anyone notice, he needs to send the notice to the authorities in question.”
He added that the system is not run by press statements made by “people seeking media attention.”
“If Behanzin wishes to make representation to the ministry, as an officer of the court, he ought to know how to do it,” Savarin said.
Let’s all calm down and focus for a second on what really is at stake here.
The main issue is not the personality, character or motive of Mr, Behanzin and /or Mr. Saverin. The concern pertains to allegations made about the condition of prisoners and their alleged ill-treatment at the state prison.
According to Behanzin, some inmates have claimed to have been beaten, threatened, to have their meals poisoned, and generally mistreated by prison officials with a specific allegation of an unlawful shooting. The issue is not about the past action of Mr. Behanzin as a magistrate nor is it about the conduct and attitude of inmates towards prison officials
Clearly, Behanzin concerns are in order. He needs to be commended for taking on tough issues, albeit sometimes making unnecessary demands, threats and issuing ultimatums that unfortunately complicate his good intentions and his ability to achieve his objectives.
These are serious allegations that need to be seriously investigated irrespective of who makes them. Instead of the political attacks, uninformed denials and counter allegations, the focus must be on the determination of the veracity of the allegations and how the state is prepared to respond to the problem.
If any of the allegations are found to be worthy of further investigation, it is ill-advised to pre-maturely dismiss them as “attention seeking” or “preposterous” before having learnt all the facts through a proper investigation.
However, the minister does make a significant point that proper procedures must be followed in making representation to the ministry or in presenting a formal compliant in the absence of the media spotlight.
The fact is, if properly investigated and the evidence supports the allegations, this would be a violation of the human rights of the prisoners- yes folks! don’t even waste time arguing over this. Prisoners have rights too. They may be prisoners today but they have always been and will continue to be human beings with inalienable rights. The rule of law demands that all side be heard- the prison officers, the prisoners, the authorities responsible for national security and the attorney at law.
Lest we unfairly blame Mr. Behanzin for seeking media attention in raising a valid matter that he is passionately and genuinely concerned about, all lawyers, including SCs enjoy media attention and that is even more true for politicians, especially when they are increasing becoming irrelevant in the political arena.
In closing, one must be extremely happy to note that Mr. Saverin appears to be recovering well from his recent illness and Mr. Behanzin is back on the scene as a fully qualified and trained Attorney-at-law. I wish both gentlemen well, especially Mr. Saverin who is a political chameleon-like dinosaur and an icon in Dominica’s political landscape.
Respectfully
Roseau Valley
Wow, I love my Tyani. Yes, he cares. The good shepherd.
The international authorities should investigate and make their final report to their superiors. Dominca Law Enforcement and nor the Prosecutors office should be a party to the investigations because they will take the side of the correctionaol officers. It is like a local police agency in the U.S.A that is corrupt . There internal affairs does not do the investigations . It is the F.B.I
behanzin too brave eh. attention mr want nah. every prisoner claims to be mistreated. he goes to prison and brings media with him for what? what abt all persons he sent prison for nofing.
To Savarin: Just because you don’t have reports of prisoner abuse does not mean it is not happening. To be so dismissive of the allegation is shows callousness on your part and a lack of concern for due process.
To Behanzin: Just because prisoners say they are being abused does not make it so. They are not the most credible members of society.
Since we do not know the for sure of those allegations are true, if there appears to be evidence to support the prisoners claim, then an investigation should be launched to get to the bottom of this.
Dominica should be governed by the rule of law and everyone should be dealt with according to the law. Prisoner should not be molly-cuddled, but neither should they be ill-treated.
Behanzin hv too much guts, he jus lookin for attention he forget he used to send ppl der y he doh make dem stay at his home under house arrest
My view of this allegation is, a formal and private writing should have been prepared and sent to the proper authorities. They must be given time to review the writing and to respond. During that time an investigation should be conducted. This takes time. The concerned person should state, “I am anticipating a reply from you as soon as possible”, words to that effect. They should not be ordered to do so and be given a few days to respond and to investigate this matter.
Generally, governments or whoever is the authority in this case, will take a few weeks or even months, as much as three months, to reply.
If it is of a serious nature, it should be immediately dealt with. Where beatings and injuries occurred, a complaint should be lodged with the Police. The prisoners involved should file a complaint with the authorities.
Prisoners could create a disturbance. They could attack other prisoners for whatever reason. They could be insubordinate to the prison guards and also attack them. They could be crude and rude. I am not insinuating that they should be shot at, injured or maltreated in any way. They are human beings who should be accorded their due right, dignity and respect.
Every one must know their places and position. Every establishment has set rules and regulations based under the circumstances.
Prisoners must have respect for prison guards and obey orders pertaining to the rules and regulations of the prison. They know why they are there. The prison guards know who they are dealing with.
The prison guards are trained to handle such situations. There are ways of exercising their authority towards prisoners without resorting to maltreatment of prisoners. Based under the circumstances, there are steps to be taken and followed. If they are unruly do they not have tranquilizers or other means to calm them down? This is one way of handling them and exercising their authority for the moment. Then report their behavior which should be recorded on their file. The prisoner(s) should be brought before the prison panel/superior to discuss their behavior.
All in all the government, prison authorities responsible for the prison should investigate this matter. They must also hear the prisoner’s side and hope that they are telling the truth.
No matter what, acknowledge the writing and indicate when Benzahin should expect a response, conduct an investigation A.S.A.P. to verify and ascertain the truth.
The above is my candid opinion on this matter.
First of all with due respect to Minister Savarin, he should have excluded, “the attorney is seeking media attention.” This statement is unprofessional, unbecoming and demeaning.
Minister Savarin should not deny prisoner mistreatment prior to conducting an investigation. How can he prove it otherwise?
Behanzin should not give them a mandate to “reply in a few days otherwise…” It is dictating to the authorities. This type of approach would not be pleasing to them. Two wrongs do not make a right. Both sides should arrange a meeting to discuss this alleged prisoner mistreatment and then proceed from there.
Yeah I heard there are serious issues in that prison from prison officers having affairs with inmates, corruption, bribery, awful conditions etc. We hope the proper people get to the bottom of this.
What else is new? It happens in every country. I do not know how and when they could find the time to do so. Lax, immoral prison system and bad management of prison officials are the cause of this. Governments are also to be blamed. They need to institute morality in the prison system. If those in authority do not have what it takes, they are not able to change the current situation. Some who are imprisoned come out worst than they were previously.
I read that there is a Canadian prison or a few prisons that allow them to have pizza parties. Canadians were invited to provide their comments. I provided mine in no uncertain way. I hoped that the government and prison officials read them and rectified the situation.
Prison is a place of punishment and not one where parties are held for prisoners. Those prisoners eat better than hard-working taxpayers. At especially Christmas, New Year’s, Easter and Thanksgiving, their meals are what I will call gourmet ones with turkey, beef roast and other relevant trimmings. So much for being imprisoned and paying for their crimes. Is it any wonder that crimes/murders escalate? They should not be mistreated but they must comprehend that they are spending time in prison for their crimes and some extremely atrocious ones.
Someone sent me an email of a new Canadian prison. Looking at it on the outside and inside I thought it looked like a mansion. They call that rehabilitating them and that when they are released they will become better people. I do not have much confidence in that. Some are liable to re-offend and in a worst manner and return to prison. I think that some of them love prison and the surroundings. Well, give them practically a mansion and/or comfortable surroundings unbecoming of a prison and its atmosphere; obviously, they will want to return. They do not have to work and that hard for their meals. If only the governments would listen to the people especially the victims of crimes/murders we would have a better, safer and happier country. I am referring to worldwide.
Correction: victims, those who are alive and the families of victims who were murdered.
yo ask the govt to take a look at IAN PAUL
Because they are prisoners and they do wrong doesn’t mean that you have to treat them like animals, Stupess
when you are in prison anything can happen, it does not necessarily mean that the prisoners are being abused by the prison guards or so,because prisoners fight with other prisoners in jail,they harm each other and the poor guards have to try their best to stop them and protect themselves in there also.This case needs to be investigated before we pass judgement,because only those in the kitchen feels the heat.
These comments are always entertaining and at the same time disturbing. I wonder, are my people that backwards? It doesn’t matter if he punished them or not, they should be treated fairly. All the man is asking is an investigation, he mentioned that if the prisoners are lying they should punished, if it is the officers they should be dealt with. Come on Dominicans, we can do better. I agree that an outside investigation is needed because you never how much corruption is involved so we need a neutral party investigating. As for the press, sometimes people need to go the press to make us aware and to put some pressure for action to be taken. I never heard about any abuse at the prison until reading this piece. There are innocent people who go to prison, what if you find yourself in a situation tomorrow where you end up in prison guilty or not guilty, would you like to be beaten daily????
i love you tiyani
Some of these inmates are hardened criminals you can’t wrap them in cotton wool if you turn your back on them then you are history.these guys are sent to prison to keep the public safe. If they refuse to obey orders then you have to let them know who is running things here otherwise who wants to be a prison guard
no matter what they do, they are already lock up they should not be mistreated. 7 days even to much.
With this new one, you have to wonder: Is this Behanzin’s attempt to atone for his unusually (some would argue criminally) “harsh” sentencing while a magistrate on the bench? Or is it the need for revenge against a government he and his supporters continue to view as illegitimate and criminal, thus worthy of bringing
down at any cost?
You have to admit that Behanzin is quite presumptuous to think that he alone can bring this government to its heels. Even more audacious is his posturing as investigator, judge, jury and executioner all rolled into one.
Is Mr. Behazin crazy? Does he really believe that simply on his say so, the Dominican authorities is afraid of a bombshell, will be so shaken and jump to his demands for international investigators.
nonese ican;t believe this what is this
he looking foe attention like a lost puppy. you are not in authority you giving government seven day or else who the hell he think he is
Your darn ignoramus, you have forgotten the message and you are attacking the messanger.I wonder if you understood what you have read. While i believe that imprisonment should not be smooth sailing, but there must be a line drawn beyond while the punishment should not go.
This is a very ticklish issue indeed. When you commit the crime you have to suffer to a certain extent. But who determines that limit? What if the prisoners themselves are bad boys/mem? Do you just give in? This issue is a delicate one.Isn’t it so?
yes thats wat u heard… seven days. all u too damn bias. trust me is people like behanzin that will save all u childrean lives.
If these allegations are found to be true, we should fire the officials involved. Prisoners are still human beings, and should be treated with respect. I think being locked up in cell resembling a cage is enough punishment for any human being, and no other brutal force should used.
TIME to investigate! STOP the hate!
There is wayyyyy too much brutality and human rights abuses in our prison system. Trust me, TIYANI is right and the prison officers know he is right. We cannot abuse our own regardless of the crimes they have committed. They are in prison to do their time, not be be beaten, threatened, abused, intimidated, bulled, starved or anything otherwise.
Assertive, NOT Agressive!
This prison has to be thoroughly investigated…Mr Charlo pull up your socks and start working..Tiyani would never come out AND SAY THINGS THAT ARE NOT TRUE…we know all over the world that there is abuse in prisons…
i agree with you 100%
“He has given authorities seven days to launch an investigation into the matter; failure to do so, according to Behanzin, will prompt further action”. News Article
This is not the first time I read this kind of expression from this man–“Behanzin”. Why does he need to apply that kind of pomposity to speak his message and, or to conduct his actions? Who, in authority, will bow down to that bold demand of his above, knowing it is will simply exalt his “Mr. Big Stuff” mentality.
Neither do I remember reading about any fruitful achievements coming from that mentality of his either, for it is not of God.
I really believe a humble attitude would be more effective, for I know God loves the work of those who are humble–in that they know how to acknowledge it is Him doing that work through them–not their “Mr. Big Stuff” strength.
There is nothing wrong with caring for people–whoever and wherever they are. But through our work of caring, we need to respect those whom we bring our message of care to–if we need their help. Bossing authority in our environment will not help the situation–it only makes matters worse, one way or the other.
Also, it is said in the Word of God, that people will suffer for their wrong doings. The problem in a prison cell is that we have both sides–the prison guard and the inmate needing training and discipline of the mind.
It is like the blind leading the blind; or the blind asking the deaf do “you see what I hear” except that in both cases, the inmate is the greater victim.
Still for all it was the inmates attitude and conducts that landed him and her in prison to begin with. Can we really say that the guard is the wrong person in those cases of bad treatment or abuse? Lord have mercy and compassion!
You frigging bias christian pokwkit MF. ” humble attitude would be more effective”- why not ask for Charles Saverin and this corrupt Labor Party gang to be humble. Jah go qwail all you false prhets and leeches and crows…
You are missing the message, you are simply an a..!
Lizavier4jesus,I hate when people like yourself use the name and Word of God in hypocrisy. It’s a shame that you all try to use God word to play politics but deny it, when it really matters. If you are following the US Politics, Billy Graham, John Hagee, and others are doing the same thing. FYI, for years they have been calling Mormonism a cult; so much so that Billy Graham had Mormonism on his wesite as a cult. However, because a black man, Obama is seeking re-election and they hate him because of his race, on the 10/12/2012, Billy Graham removed them from that list of cults and endorsed Romney who is a Mormon precher. They say they don’t support Obama because he supports policies like Arbotion, Homosexuality, taking what people have to give to others, and according to them, is unbiblical. But doesn’t the same bible teach us (Lev. 19:9-10, 23:22, Deut. 15:11) to love and care for the poor like Obama is doing?
My point is, you are hitting Tiyani for calling on the authorities to investigate what is happening at the state prison and you using the bible to preach your nonsense. Tiyani gave them 7 days to investigate it and if they fail to act, he will take legal action against them. What’s is so proudful about that? Have you ever recieved a letter from a lawyer? Don’t they give you time to respond and failure to do so, may result in legal action against you? Stop being silly and using God’s Holy Name and Word tin vain.
@500 years behind
I would imagine that your “five hundred years behind” means that you are that far behind in Life, trapped in the cage of your carnal mind, and the control of your human senses. That is the worst kind of slavery a human being will ever exist with.
You ain’t going to ever catch up with me in Life–you see! So don’t worry about me and others, worry about yourself–being so far back in existing; you don’t even know Life.
If you need to spew out the venom that you are feeding on, why use my comment and my identity, including all those other names that you used above to do so?
I hope that you do not believe your sentiment here will affect me, do you? Because all it makes me feel about you is pity. Sorry to disappoint you!
where are my thumbs up n down when i need em
@ Smh
You already have them
1000 thumbs up on your comment!!!!!
DNO you better hurry up with bringing back that feature otherwise the “Comments” Division has seriously declined in the enjoyment factor without it!!!!!!
Can you give us an update as to when it will be brought back?
This is not an important issue. Who really cares and how many people really care? As everything else, I do think that some people got accustomed without them and do not (no longer) miss them. Devoid of them, this should encourage everyone to comment. Some may not have been doing that. All they did was to especially concentrate in giving thumbs up and down, no doubt without taking the time and patiently so to read them; some also not comprehending, overlooking or ignoring what was written, the important aspect of the comments and the reason why some take the time to do so.
Justice and truth who says everyone wants to comment? So its either comment or have no say?
So much for free speech and freedom to choose how to express it.
Skerrit’s style of dictatorship seems to be contagious.
I listened to the Minister for National Security’s response on the matter and he seemed ver defensive, almost antagonistic. Why Sir? Tyanni’s concerns sound legitimate to me!
After reading foolish comments from people like Anti-hate and others, I have no choice but to take a deeper look at what was said. What they are saying is, because Behanzin as a judge, gave harsh sentences to criminals who committed grievous offences in Dominica, then that same Behanzin should totally ignore their right in prison. How stupid!
As a bible believing nation, we must never forget the story of Cane who killed his brother Abel. In today’s world, Cane would no doubt have received the death penalty. But notice how harsh a punishment he recieved from God himself Ge. 3:11-12. His punishment was so harsh that in verses 13-14 Cane said, “My punishment is greater than I can bear.” But see how God, the judge, responded by protecting his right vs. 15. ” Therefore whosoever slayeth Cane, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold.” behanzin did the right thing!
i would have give you 1000 thumbs up. lets go behanzin. i mean they did their crime and their facing their time but that doesent give the officers the right to brutalize them. i have a brother in their and he knows im not proud of what he did to be in there but at the same time i will not be able to stand there and hear tht he is being brutalized.
Which part of Dominica is bible believing?
The part that continually votes in criminal politicians?
or the part that applauds their criminal activities?
or the part that feels pride when they see the ill gotten gains of the policians being used to build their big mansions?
or the part that supports pastors who sleep with members of their congregation?
or the part that sends in large somes of money to celebrate pastors birthdays instead of using that money to help the sick and the old?
or the part that steals from neighbours?
or the part that rapes children?
or the part that pimps out their daughters for blackberry and weave?
or the part that steals from employers?
or the part that refuse to work and prefer to go red clinic and beg?
Which part of Dominica exactly is bible believing?
@Anonymous
By the time I finished reading all of your parts, I have to say that there is no Bible believing part in Domininca, you see! But O dear! I hope that you and I are both wrong; for our soul’s sake!
LOL @ Lizavier thats funny! Thanks for a cool chuckle. Me and you both!
I just cannot begin to understand. I have my family up in the rest and he that sentenced him and My God.
What is wrong with this man ? Have the ice from England freeze yet ? JIzzz so much hot talk about cleaning up our streets from those criminals…so many of his judgments were over turned by the Oecs Supremem court and now he wants to play champion of those very prisoners based on mere allegations? is it not a crime for someone to use a cell phone while in prison ? is it wrong to discourage criminality ? is it right to encourage crime ? We al have to protect the rights of the public and also those in the rest.
but i cannot send someome in stockfarm and in the same breathe try to use dem for media purposes. DAT AINT RIGHT?
hello you what is the purpose of sending an individual to prison? It is for rehabilitation and not for mistreatment. I wonder what you would say if you one day went to the prison and found out that your family was abused by the prison officers. Prisoners are humans and they have the right to be treated with dignity and respect inspite of the crime that they commit. Be objective in your response!!!!
Y didn’t Mr Behanzin take the time off to check-up on the inmates while he was a magistrate? This is all about you again! Please stope using others to get attention
The Hon. Minister is making a lot of sense. Whatever the situation Mr. Behanzin found in the prison, he has a duty to report the same to the proper authorities. The proper authorities cannot be the local press/media. Calling a press conference in front of the prison gates is not the way to go. Mr. Behanzin went on to request an investigation into what he claims to be happening at the prison and that such investigation should be undertaken by a foreign interest (FBI, Scotland Yard, MI5, Mossad, whoever) Is that the way we conduct the state’s business?. Is that the system that Behanzin would like to promote fro Dominica where any lawyer can go the prison, cal a press conference just outside the prison walls at which he can allege serious criminal wrong, and call for an investigation by outside experts, and such investigatiosn to be undertaken within one week without giving any specific and formal report of his findings to the appropriate authority? Should government now quiver at the situation simply because it is Rosie Douglas’ son who is speaking and rush to commission an inquiry within seven days by outside experts, without any onjective reporting of serious criminal wrong doing and institutional cover up? Is that how the country has come. Behanzin, come better than that. Your emotional outbursts at percieved wrongdoings in society will only leave you with a legal practice record al a Don See where most of his cases were fought based on his emotions at the time and not necessarily the law. Thankfully for Charlo and Skerro, your niot so subtle attempts at creating strife will only go ala the way of “putting boots on the ground”.
Is thst yhr same observer that supported Parry news conference on his so called productivity findings. Remember Parry went to the media without even talking to his bosses. Nevertheless whether or not Tiyanni should or should not have gone to the media the message is what Charles Saverin as the minister responsible should deal with. Chsrles is more interested in shutting down the meessenger fr obvious reasons.
No Greg. This Observer is a different person. Infact I have seen other posts by “Observer” who is not this one. So there are different observers.
Your point is made. Are you saying that an issue as significant as “physical abuse of a prisoner” and threats to “poison a prisoner” by who, – we still do not know should not be documented and passed to the relevant authority for further action before it is made public? Are you cognizant of the fact that Mr. Behanzin gave government 7 days to institute an investigation with foreign personnel or else he will go to proverbial “next level” without the benefit of his information – credible or not. Mr. Behanzin is not an ordinary person who well understand proper procedures, norms and responsibilities. He was a former magistrate.Hs profession is not one that dabbles in accusations or allegation. Infact his professional training prepares him to seek out the facts from allegatiosn and wishful thinking. So to demand of the state a certain executive action with significant cost implications without giving the state the benefit of more information than what was given to the media is simply media grand standing. The Minister is right to dismiss the press statement which is totally devoid of any facts. Behanzin alone has all the facts.
For those bloggers who seeminlgy are still celebrating over the Hon. Minister’s illness and its impact on his voice should take note of the following. The Hon. Minister’s voice is slowly getting back. It may never get back to where it was before but has improved to a state where he can now properly communicate audibly. There is an opposition senator (member of parliament) whose voice is perpetually hoarse. It is his trade mark and perhaps getting worst as he ages. We all should take note.
Charlo is right; his Government does not give a damn about what is reported in the press. They give no attention to the cries of the people reported in the media. If youy can’t go to them and make your case, then you are totally and wholly ignored. Go on, Charlo; the Wesminister-type governing structure you claim to uphold will come around to bite you where it hurts.
I concur!! god gave him a wakeup call, he not taking hid, the voice come back so he start to bark again, god not sleeping
well dominicans not easy.
all of alu have problems
Behanzin what message are you sending to the people of Dominica. Try prison in South America, Mexico or Cuba etc. Dominica is nice compare to those countries. Hey, you do the crime, you spend the time. People have a choice, like WCK say “either you in or out”.
There are 4 sides to every story!
(1) What the accuser tells you
(2) What the one being accused tell you
(3) What you don’t know
(4) The truth..
I am totally against any kind of victimization whether it be criminal or innocent individual, however, look into those being accused of being beaten and examine the facts!
– what are they imprisoned for?
– are they disrespectful to the guards?
– do they adhere to the prison regulations and do what they are told?
One has to remember that incarceration has a purpose and inherently the imprisoned does not have ALL the rights that a person out of prison has.
Stupid people. The guy sent these persons to jail. Does that mean that he would like to have them kill themselves up there. How stupid can you people be? A bunch of DUMMY NICANS YOU ARE!!
MANY or you Dominicans are just plain out ignorant!! Please read some more and get better educated!!Travel some more cause as it seems Dominica is the Caribbean 50 years ago!!
I like how u write that DUMMY NICANS lol
Jesus Christ …stupid people…..they are going to get out of jail….you all want them to come out worst than they go in?
All u remember de treatment Jesus Christ received after he was arrested when betrayed and left to the dogs by Judas?
He was fighting against the state and what did they do to him?
De judge and ALL de jury found him guilty and he was sentenced to hang.
Justice is about balance. The keepers of the law never had and never will have the right to break the law. They only do when we allow them to do it and rally around them for doing it, like in sweet Dominica.
but behanzin is a next romney man, he saying one thing in de past now he wants to go up for politics he saying another thing, it was a sarah palin, now we have a mitt romney, u guys cant be trusted
Prison officers in Dominica have a challenging job with very, very limited resources. We have to accept that fact. All prisoners are human beings and should not be subject to inhumane and unlawful treatment. Nevertheless, prison is not a place for “warm and fuzzy feelings.”
Just bare in mind the prison officers have to protect themselves as well as the prisoners. Investigate allegations of wrongdoing but don’t be too quick to condemn the prison authority into the category of “corrupt.”
My god, what ignorance. Look at these idiots talking garbage about “tynani send them up, now he siding with them”. What is wrong with these people brains?
When a prisoner is sentenced, they are sentenced to be behind bars for a period of time or life and not sentenced to daily beatings and threats of poisoned food and etc. Which part of the law says that in addition to being behind bars they should be subjected to this?
And we all know of the popular secko case with denny. Denny is at the prison. We know all who are involved in this fire bombing. He is one of the prisoners that should be protected because he has to testify in this case one day. That case must call and the chips will fall where they may.
And yes, I said one day, because them criminals can NEVER stay in office for much longer. They must fall, and things will unfold.
And yes No Name No Warrant, All in GIRAUDEL too.
They are humans first, prisoners second! Regardless of the crimes that they committed, they should still be treated with dignity and respect. Beating and abusing them behind “the scenes” does not help rehabilitate them. I swear, I don’t understand the thoughts of some people.
this jamaican artist named jah cure points out a significant mesage in his song about the prison walls.if the prisoners dont want to be treated as animals they should respect the rules as well especially those who have killed innocent people,
prison is nt suppose to be a place where one would like to go back too it suppose to be a place that encourages others to try not to reach there.so mr.behanzin doesnt need to concern him self of what an how prisoners are treated at the prison.all man soeth what he planteth
Incaceration should be a form of deterent such that when you get out you will do your utmost to avoid going back there. You folks talk about they are human, then why they taking peoples lives? Those people they kill and main are humans you no. As far as I am concerned if you murder, maim, rape then u derserve every thing you get. At least you still alive whilst those you killed are in a grave and their family have to go on grieving
behanzine fail to tell us what happened on the day those prisoners claim to have been beaten by prison officers, he deliberately left out that the night before they tried to riot by breaking there bowls and cups and trued to burn down the area,and in the morning abuse the prison officers, what behanzin expect for the officers to lye down and play dead…he should tell those criminals to beheve themselves whilst in jail ..you cant break the law outside and when they send you to jail you still want to break the jail come on man
Prisoners have their human rights, incarceration is already punishment, one cannot be punished twice for the same crime. Tiyani sent them up there for their crime committed but he did not send them there to be illtreated. Someone need to be an advocate for human rights in this country especially against police brutality, and if it has to be Tiyani so let it be. Denny should watch his back, he is wanted dead
They are not humans. They are criminals. They are creatures who murdered someone. They are creatures who broke into someones home and stole items that the owners of items worked very hard for. They are creatures who raped someone. They are creatures who sold drugs. They are creatures who stole crops from farmers. They are creatures who did all sorts of horrible things to others.
Creatures.
Prison is not supposed to be a Holiday Inn. No work, sit on your fat butts, eat 3 square meals everyday, watch TV and lime? You guys must be crazy! It’s supposed to be a horrible place that you do not want to ever end up in.
The grey area starts with innocent people who end up there but when I think of thieves, rapists, murderers living a charmed life up stockfarm? I will side with prison officers. Ultimately prison is exactly that. A dark ugly place.
I would like to think that the officers if they are guilty dont randomly brutalize and that they know exacty which creatures they attack.
With all this talking going on I think we should all wait for an investigation and see the results.We jump too quickly before we really knows what’s going on .I am not in favour if this is going on but for all those that have something to say ,if any of those criminals had rape murdered or done something serious to someone you loved you would be singing a different song
Everytime I hear the Ministers of Government open their mouths to address a serious problem in Dominica,the calypso inside out,outside in,back to front,front to back comes to mind.A serious allegation is made by a former magistrate and present lawyer,not a paro,shouldn’t he be taken seriously,instead we hear Minister Savarin talking about media attention.I wonder had it been the senior counsel making those allegations,wouldn’t their be an investigation.
Is Charles Saverin aware of the machine gun fiasco? If so why did he remain quiet while machine guns are being picked up by the police. Instead of simply stating that he will look into the matter Charles launch an attack on Tiyanni. What kind of jungle conduct is that. Charles wad quick to
C’mon DNO! There’s no e on the end of furor. Use spellcheck for goodness sake!
ADMIN: http://www.antimoon.com/forum/t5985.htm
Dave the correct English spelling is with an “e” (as per the Oxford dictionary). “Furor” is a bastardised U.S. spelling, just like “gotten” has crept ito our language instead of the grammatically correct “got” (past part. of “get”) as has the increased use in the U.S.A. of the past tense in place of the correct past particple – like “he has took” instead of the correct “he has taken”. But don’t worry, we still understand you.
Dave, dig a hole and bury yourself.
I would not like to be you now.
Good thing your picture is not there.
Lol
I hate to disappoint you Dave Thomas.
Please do your homework if you are to “cast stones at houses” in such a gruff manner. We are chiefly British first, hence the spelling -furore-. If you choose to use furor, then do not condemn the other accepted spelling. These words are not English origins but rather from, Middle English furour, wrath, fury, from Old French fureur, from Latin furor, from furere, to rage.
Let’s keep the knowledge flowing…nice!
God protect Denny in this prison.
You kidding, right??
all of a sudden tiyani on prisoners side? not he that send dem up dere? one time he said if the people have done criminal activities they will pay for it now he reverse, “a bare politics dat”
JA accent.
Ofcourse he sent them there where they belong once they were found guilty. But does that mean that you have to brutalize the preisoners and he must support it?
did he send them up there just so? did the do a crime? and even though he sent them up he dont have to agree to them being abused. so get your thoughts together.
Are you serious? You are making no sense at all. So you are saying that because he sent them to prison for doing a crime he agrees that the officers should brutalize them? Paying for it means doing their time in jail and all other legal consequences. You are an idiot.
B.S. He sent them there because of the crimes they committed. That does not mean he should not be concerned about how they are treated in prison. It just shows that he is not one who just send them away and forget about them. This is the mark of a concerned citizen.
I think he’s on the side of ‘human rights’, your’s included.
U dotish or what?
De court hands down a judgement that is effected by the JUDGE not the LAWYER
Den de people chose Barabas to lead dem. A notorious criminal at large
Miss, prison is like a hospital. When you visit your private doctor and based on ones condition doctor admits him / her, the general public expects the patient to be treated fairly. Similarly, because Tiyani sends a person to stockfarm does not mean he should fight for their well being. You all are so sort in this country and have no understanding of justice!
He went to speak or see prisoner(s). What was the media doing outside? Tyanni Behanzin is just seeking case and problems. Just keep it cool Mr.
Wait a minute, I dont get it! Behanzine advocated for harsh penalties for criminals when he was a magistrate. Now, he playing Lord and Savior for the inmates?
Am I missing something there?
Anonymous, there is a big difference between harsh penalties and fair treatment. When the judge gives a person maximum jail time for his crime, we call that harsh penalties. However, when he is in state prison he is to be treated as a human being. So your point makes no sense whatsoever.
Hard sentencing is not a licence for inhumane ill-treatment. I think all civilized societies agree on that.
Fair and Unbiased, that’s the definition for Behanzin.
no,
you are not missing anything. He just wants them to be treated fairly. Think of your relative being sent there for a crime he committed and you go to visit one day only to find out that he was beaten by the prison officers. Would you say he has to pay for what he did? Think objectively sir!
But Charlo really don’t like u eh Behanzin.
Charlo and Behanzin from Possie, so they are close neighbours. I doubt Charlo hate Behanzin.
So after Tianni send them up he now want to represent them, or is he just after the Minister job…. Politics in Dca has really taken a dangerous turn…. No one is spared in this new dispensation!!!
some of you may think that the prisoners deserve the mistreatment but that’s not the best attitude to employ. the prisoners’ punishment is incarceration. the court does not order abuse as well. prisoners are still human beings. we have to remember that some may be released one day and what you think will happen if they had to endure inhuman abuse throughout their sentences and then get paroled? they would not have been rehabilitated. they would return to society worst than when they first left.
let’s see the so called God farers and/or the hypocrites respond to this
and that’s where i miss the like button.
Punishment must be just. Being in prison is a punishment, being abused while in prison is another story for the court to take up. The gentleman is fair in his dealings. Try wearing the shoe on both feet.
so bcuz dem man commit crimes they have to be ill-treated..they are still human beings jus like us that are free out side..wat if is one of allu dat was there allu wuld be singing a diff tune right…prison isnt jus for one set anybdy can end up prison
if they are human beings why they commit those heinous crimes that can only be attributable to ferocious animals!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Isn’t that the same Behanzin who was giving sentences to that same prison so harsh that most got overturned on appeal?
Yes is he self.And it is because he was giving the harsh sentences he wants them to be reformed and not brutalised. You seem to ab empty vacuum, with no brain, one can hardly analyze. Punishment does not mean that you hate the offender.Put that in your pipe and smoke it.
Why continue to spread rumors, non but two of his sentences were ordered a new trial, one of the men was executed on the streets while Behanzin was forced to go to Trinidad, the dead man’s lawyer was the man who now was promoted to high office. His friend on the Bench who ensured that no matter what he did he would find himself on the streets, that magistrate was promoted, no one wants to talk about that. Seven more would die since Behanzin was removed from the Bench, we still have not learned. Most of the violent death ironically, took place while Behanzin was serving a sentence of victimisation from this government. The government should have renewed his contract, we in the North have suffered from his absence on the Bench. We should give the man his credits-
Not everyone in prison is guilty as charged. There are tons of innocent victims locked up. What about their mistreatment? You would certainly not feel the same if your next of kin was imprisoned and being mistreated. Your comments would carry some kind of compassion and empathy. You Christians should get back to Christ and act like Christians should. Judgment soon come and everyone has to answer to the Almighty One!
When someone is incarcerated for crimes against society they should NOT be beaten by those charged with ensuring their safety and well being. Mr. Benhazin is 100% correct. Reports of such behavior MUST be investigated because after all prisoners are human beings. Too many allegation of mistreatment and beatings at our prisons are being circulated. Time to get down to the bottom of it.
Assertive, NOT Agressive!
As long as these people are protected by taxes payers money and they still remain HUMAN then they have the right to be treated humanely. Despite of the crime they still need to be respected as human beings. Anything thing less then the authorities responsible for protecting them then becomes criminal in deed and intent.
True prison should not be a bed of roses but can you imagine in jail for a joint and your are beaten and kicked around by officers? Can you imagine your son, daughter, brother, sister, mom or dad in jail for a crime that they did not commit and that individual is physically beaten, poorly fed, verbally abuse and have the scares to show it, and what do we do? Do we say its ok? If we play by the rules to treat all fairly then this does not become an issue. Lets be humane to our brothers and sisters despite of their crime.Humane treatment for all while they pay their price to society.Don’t wait until it becomes you!!
He has now become the very disgruntled brother who for whatever reason does not like the administration of his brother. While i do not condone the mistreatment of any individual, prison is meant to be for punishment and to an extent rehabilitation. Did you interview some of the prison officers, to ask about the behaviors of the prisoners?
Stop the propaganda man. Like the Minister for National Security said, “if you have a legitimate concern about the treatment of prisoners, report it to the proper authority.” If this is done and then you are not satisfied with the investigation, then you may want to get an independent entity to observe and investigate. Till then be your brother’s keeper my man.
Prisoners must pay for their crimes, but that does not mean they have no rights. The comments made are very troubling; we have a long way to go as a people and a nation. In the US, prison guards are charged and prosecuted all the time for mistreatment and abuse of inmates. Many of the police in Dominica can’t be trusted, they are corrupt as their political masters. Charles Savarin knows what the truth is.
hmmm….i like dis guy as much as the next guy buh…who really does this man think he is? why is his comments or advocates always seemed to be laced with a level of authoritativeness of some sort?! Ultimatum? then wat Sir? you goin to beat someone? or send dem to 45years in prison?…pffff! chilax my boii and send ur presentation or findings thru the proper channels! aint nobody owe u for u to be giving ppl ultimatum?
Thank you!
I have to much respect for u to start doing this please don’t take the those trend that these other guys have,there was a time when things like this would go to the one’s in charge then if nothing’s done then u go public now it’s public 1st.I remember jah cure saying prison ah no bed ah rose.
I am not in any way condoning the mistreatment of prisoners, but isn’t it amazing when the very people who are terrorizing society is themselves being terrorized and they crying out?
This is the same cry that society has been letting out.
In any case I hope atleast this issue is looked into…
I cant believe that this is the same man who was sentencing them to hash punishment. i want Mr. Behanzin to know that he needs to be carefull what he is doing because prison issues are very sensitive issue and by giving the prisoners a sense of them being ill treated and having support from the outside could create tention between the inmates and officers. the minister is right by saying that if such allegations are made it should be reported to the proper authorities and allow for an investigation other than giving a week to investigate and by an international team. how unrealsitic…
Well put Mr Minister. This one statement by you, I do agree with.
D nice shut up. Some of these people are on remand and not even found guilty yet. There are some real serious stuff going on down there. These people are humans..
i hate when people advocate on behalf of criminals let them man take what they get. most likely they are the ones causing problems with the prison officers
Hate is a strong word, don’t you think? You should learn to love more. You would be less stressed if you loved more.
so prisoners are not people.
prison is not a bed of roses and it will never be all that is part of their punishment so they will know not to do anything to go back up there
While that may be true, you must remember that they are humans too. Someone’s son, father, brother or whatever relation. We also need to keep in mind that some of these people are innocent. Let God be the final judge.
It is heart breaking to know that we have such level of ignorance in Dominica. I wonder if you would express the same ignorant statement if your family was involved.
No wonder we’re such a brutal and callous people. We treating our own like street dogs.