Leslie Thomas QC has taken part in a press conference in Dominica this week, speaking about deaths in state custody and the inquest process.
The press conference was held following the death of Joshua Etienne, who died in custody at Portsmouth Police Station in Dominica on 5 August. Leslie addressed the issues that a country with a small population, like Dominica, might face in investigating deaths in custody. These include the shortage of resources and the fact that it would be resource-intensive to establish a transparent investigatory body when such incidents are so rare.
Nevertheless, Leslie highlighted that transparency and independence of the investigation are key, along with the preservation of evidence at an early stage. Leslie also addressed the issues surrounding police involvement with the investigation and urged police not to feel under attack if they are questioned about the death.
More information about the press conference can be found via Dominica News Online.
Leslie Thomas QC is a member of the Garden Court Chambers Inquests Team.
