Video: Police Update On Finger Found

[Updated] The police provided an update on the finger that was found in the car park on Court Street, saying that following an investigation they ascertained that two men, aged 58 and 61, had an altercation and “one of the individuals received an injury to his hand, consistent with the partial loss of a finger.”

The finger was found by a member of the public, and reported to the police, however it was apparently destroyed prior to a full investigation.

A Bermuda Hospitals Board spokesperson previously said, “Bermuda Hospitals Board [BHB] has launched an internal investigation into an allegation that it disposed of an apparent human body part. Preliminary findings indicate that what appeared to be part of a human digit was brought to the hospital by a member of the public. No notice, direction or advice from the Bermuda Police Service [BPS] was forthcoming. When forensic evidence is handled by the hospital, BPS liaises directly with BHB.”

Speaking at a press conference today, Acting Assistant Commissioner Sean Field-Lament said, “Officers conducted a follow-up investigation and were able to speak to two Pembroke males, aged 61 and 58 years old. It would appear that they had an altercation on Monday evening, January 25 2021, in the Court Street area.

“One of the individuals received an injury to his hand, consistent with the partial loss of a finger. Both men have declined to make a complaint to the police and do not wish the police to be involved. A criminal complaint has not been made.

“I would like to thank the general public for their assistance in providing valuable information that helped resolve the matter.

“In addition to determining the circumstances surrounding the loss and recovery of the digit, we have conducted an extensive review of the circumstances and initial police handling of the matter. Gaps in service delivery have been identified, and we will be addressing them with training and policy procedure amendments, so that we can limit this happening again.

“It would appear that our officers initial response was to expedite the matter as dealing with a medical emergency. Whilst their intent was laudable, unfortunately investigative opportunities were overlooked and lost.

“I want to personally reassure the public that whilst we did not get it exactly right on this occasion, the vast majority of handling of incidents by the BPS is done in a professional and competent manner. We have identified mistakes made, and we will strive to do better in the future.”

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