By Sue-Ann Wayow
COMMISSIONER of Police Erla Harewood-Christopher is thanking God and her attorneys for being able to return to work after all criminal charges against her have been dropped.
She briefly spoke to some members of the media on Monday after she returned to her office of work at the Police Administration Building in Port of Spain.
Harewood-Christopher said, “I thank God, I thank my attorneys, I have been vindicated.”
Harewood-Christopher’s suspension from duty was lifted by the Police Service Commission (PolSC). The lifting of Harewood-Christopher’s suspension follows a statement by the Director of Public Prosecutions last weekend that all criminal charges against the top cop have been dismissed.
Harewood-Christopher returned to the office where she was initially arrested on January 30, accompanied by her attorney Pamela Elder, SC and even met with Minister of Homeland Security Roger Alexander who was also scheduled to meet Acting Commissioner of Police Junior Benjamin.
She said her vindication was expected.
“In my 43 years of service, I have never been…there are no allegations of misconduct be it criminal or otherwise. My service has always been with integrity,” Harewood-Christopher said.
When asked if she expected to receive another extension, she replied, “I expect my heavenly father to take good care of me. Whatever God has in store for me, that is what will happen.
Harewood-Christopher also said there was no animosity towards Deputy Commissioner of Police Suzette Martin who led the arrest.
She also said her meetings with both Alexander and Benjamin were cordial.
The first woman Police Commissioner was voted for unanimously in Parliament even from the then Opposition members on February 3, 2023. Her contract was extended in May, 2023, although she had reached the retirement age of 60.
It officially ends on Wednesday.
Harewood-Christopher was suspended from duty by the PolSC pending the police’s investigation into allegations of misbehaviour in public office against her. She was suspended immediately following her arrest in January and was instructed to cease all duties until further notice by the PolSC.
