Senior police officials in Antigua and Barbuda have expressed concern about defendants accused of serious violent offences being granted bail while their cases are still before the courts.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Lisborn Michael said the issue has caused distress among victims’ families and frustration within the police force, particularly after lengthy investigations.

Speaking on the Browne and Browne Show, Michael recalled learning that a man accused of killing a woman’s son in 2024 had been released on bail. He said he had initially believed the accused was still in custody until the victim’s mother reported seeing him in public.

Michael also cited a West Bus Station shooting case, saying defendants were released on bail and that one later appeared before the same judge in another case and was convicted of robbery.

The Assistant Commissioner stressed that bail decisions are made by the courts and that defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

However, he said police remain concerned about suspects allegedly committing further offences while on bail or shortly after serving sentences.

Michael said the police would continue investigating crimes and presenting evidence to the courts, but argued that all parts of the criminal justice system must work effectively to tackle violent crime and reduce repeat offending.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Police Concerned as Murder and Shooting Accused Secure Bail.