Constables had bodycams off during alleged assault, court hears
Woman allegedly pointed stun gun at crowd, and a man entered police station brandishing a gun
The police have launched an investigation after three officers involved in a case where they were allegedly assaulted by a teenager all had their bodycams off.
The investigation was revealed by prosecutors as they replied to questions by the defence during the young man's arraignment.
The accused, who cannot be identified because he is still a minor, pleaded not guilty to nine charges, including assaulting two police officers. He had visible injuries during the arraignment.
The court heard that the incident occurred on Sunday during the Żejtun feast. Two police constables on duty were called to break up an argument in the square opposite the Beland Club. Upon arrival, witnesses pointed out a young woman who was allegedly in possession of a stun gun and pointing it at people in the crowd.
Woman points stun gun at crowd
When officers moved to arrest her, her brother (the accused) intervened aggressively, forcing the police to arrest him as well. The youth resisted arrest, resulting in minor injuries to one police officer and damage to another's uniform.
The young woman is to be charged separately.
During cross-examination, prosecuting Inspector Antonello Magri confirmed that the three constables involved in the incident did not have their bodycams switched on.
When questioned about the visible injuries on the accused, the inspector stated that the situation had escalated into a physical altercation, which explained the minor's injuries.
Man brandishes pistol in police station
However, the defence raised serious allegations regarding the minor's treatment. They noted that, according to the accused's statement, a blond-haired adult man had entered the police station with a pistol and attempted to assault the minor.
The inspector confirmed this allegation was part of the minor’s statement and said that an internal investigation is underway.
The defence lawyers added that they found the absence of all bodycam footage highly suspicious.
The prosecution countered that an internal affairs investigation has been launched regarding the level of force used on the youth.
The accused pleaded not guilty to all the charges, including carrying a weapon and breaching the public peace.
The prosecution did not object to bail but requested strict conditions and a protection order for the victims, who are also witnesses in the case.
Magistrate Giannella Camilleri Busuttil granted bail subject to a €500 deposit and a €2,500 personal guarantee. The accused was also ordered to sign the bail book twice a week. A protection order was issued in favour of the victims.
The prosecution was led by Inspector Antonello Magri. Lawyers Arthur Azzopardi and Veronica-Anne Spiteri appeared for the accused.