Calls on The Bahamas Bar Association to comment on allegations of recordings, and allegations that an attorney has involvement in leaked voice notes that led to Chief Superintendent of Police, Michael Johnson on leave
Those audio recordings, which were shared on Facebook by a user who purports to be a whistleblower, detail purported conversations between a man who identified himself as Mikey, at the time a wanted suspect, and two other men.
In the wake of the release of the recordings, and allegations that an attorney has involvement in the matter now under investigation by police, at least one attorney has called on the Bar Association to comment on the allegations.
But Bar Association President Kahlil Parker, KC, indicated that the organization will not rush to judgment.
“The Bahamas Bar Association advocates consistently for the transparent, considered, and fair administration of justice in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas and cannot therefore allow itself or its processes to be cajoled or harangued into rash action with respect to a clearly evolving situation or otherwise,” Parker said in a statement.
“The Royal Bahamas Police Force has publicly declared its pending investigation, which we support. We will closely observe that process and look forward to the publication of the results thereof. It is anathema to our mandate to engage in reckless and uniformed commentary that may undermine the proper investigation of substantive matters of concern.”
Parker said the Bar Association will not be making further comments on the situation.
Last week, Commissioner of Police Clayton Fernander said the RBPF’s Security and Intelligence Branch was overseeing an investigation into the voice recordings. Fernander said international entities from the US and UK will also assist in the investigation to ensure the probe is “independent, impartial and fair”.
One of the men captured on the recordings, is said to be Michael Fox Jr., who was shot dead in May. Last week, Fox’s father, Michael Fox Sr., told The Tribune it was his son’s voice in the recordings and claimed he had the voice notes in his possession but did not release them.
The audio details separate conversations with the wanted suspect purportedly attempting to negotiate turning himself in to police and what it would cost for him to be released after he is questioned.
On Friday, Free National Movement (FNM) Senator Michaela Barnett-Ellis said the allegations have shaken public confidence in the legal system.
“It is imperative that we continue to have absolute confidence in the Royal Bahamas Police Force, the courts and the members of our Bar Association,” Barnett-Ellis said. “We must be confident in their ability to act justly, honestly and to uphold the law without fear or favor.”
After the recordings went viral earlier this month, Fernander announced that Johnson has gone on garden leave, pending the investigation. During this time, Johnson will receive his full pay and benefits.
