Policing Plans For May Court Appearances
The next court appearances in relation to the protests at the House of Assembly on 2nd December 2016, will take place on May 1st and 3rd, and police said they are “aware that appeals are being made for the public to show support for the defendants and therefore, plans are in place to cater to large numbers of people attending on the days mentioned.”
A police spokesperson said, “The next court appearances for defendants in relation to the protests at the House of Assembly on 2nd December 2016, will take place 1st May and 3rd May 2017.
“Both sessions will take place at the Dame Lois Browne Evans building.
“The Bermuda Police Service [BPS] is aware that appeals are being made for the public to show support for the defendants and therefore, plans are in place to cater to large numbers of people attending on the days mentioned.
“The aim of our plan is to accommodate a peaceful gathering, should it occur, while ensuring the normal proceedings of the Courts and other functions in the building.
“Accordingly, the entryway to the Dame Lois Browne Evans building on Court Street must always remain clear and unobstructed to allow free passage.
“It should be noted that these court appearances will be brief.
“The public is reminded that all the rules of the Courts, along with any instructions issued by a member of the judiciary, are strictly enforced to maintain proper security and order in the Courts.
“The general rules include:
- No standing in the court room. No further access will be granted once all seating is taken.
- No banners or signs of any kind are permitted in the court room.
- No cell phones or recording devices are permitted.
- All persons in the public gallery are expected to follow the rules of the Courts which include silence and no interruptions of any kind once proceedings have commenced.
- All persons entering the courts are subject to security search. Motorcycle helmets and other bulky items are not permitted to be carried.
“The public can expect to see an increased police presence in and around the Dame Lois Browne Evans building to assist with managing the activity Monday and Wednesday.
“Currently, the plan is to keep the streets open around the courts, but this may change if the need arises. The media will be informed and the public can expect updates via our social media feeds.
“Businesses in the vicinity and anyone planning on attending them should plan for additional activity in the area.
“The BPS is reaching out to community leaders and organizers to share these plans and ensure that everyone knows what to expect both days.
“We anticipate that any activity in relation to these short court appearances will be conducted peacefully and lawfully.
“We are available to answer any questions in this regard at the Operational Planning Unit on telephone 247-1362.”
