Former Sergeant Theodore Neilly was wrongfully arrested and detained by his colleagues in 2016, leading to a successful civil suit where he was awarded damages. The Court of Appeal refused to grant the government leave to appeal to the Privy Council in this case. Neilly expressed support for Coalition of Independents Deputy Leader Maria Daxon after her arrest, which led to him being questioned by his superiors and eventually taken to police headquarters against his will.
The government’s latest appeal attempt argued that Neilly was not unlawfully detained and that as a police officer, he had a duty to comply with lawful orders. However, Court of Appeal Justice Indra Charles found that these submissions were never argued during the trial or in a previous appeal and were not of general public importance. While the applicants could appeal directly to the Privy Council, the specific issues raised were not deemed relevant for consideration by the higher court.
The Court of Appeal ultimately decided to not grant leave to appeal to the Privy Council, as they did not find any arguable case to succeed on appeal and the issues raised were not of general public importance. Sir Arthur Barnett noted that the obligation of a subordinate officer to obey the orders of a superior was not the main issue in the case, and if the applicants wanted to pursue the matter further, they could apply directly to the Privy Council for leave to appeal.
K Melvin Munroe represented Sgt Neilly in this case, where he successfully argued that he was wrongfully detained and deserved damages for the actions taken against him by his colleagues. The case highlighted issues of police conduct and the rights of officers in such situations. While the Court of Appeal did not grant leave to appeal to the Privy Council, the door was left open for the applicants to pursue further action if they deemed it necessary.
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29 Comments
I think the government should be held accountable for their mistakes. Justice served!
Youre absolutely right. Its about time the government faces consequences for their actions. Its time for accountability and transparency. Justice must be served, no more excuses. Keep speaking up and demanding change.
I cant believe they sided with the officer! Justice system is messed up.
Why should taxpayers foot the bill for the governments mistakes? Outrageous!
This case proves the justice system can work. Lets hope it stays consistent.
I wouldnt hold my breath. The justice system is a mixed bag at best. One good case doesnt erase the countless injustices that happen every day. Lets not get too comfortable just yet.
Do you think the government should be held accountable for wrongful arrests?
Absolutely, the government should be held accountable for wrongful arrests. They hold immense power and should be held to the highest standards. No one is above the law, not even those who enforce it. Accountability is crucial for a fair and just society.
I cant believe the government wasted taxpayer money on this appeal. Outrageous!
I think the government should be held accountable for all wrongful arrests!
This is ridiculous! The government should be held accountable for their mistakes.
I think the government should take responsibility for the wrongful arrest. Justice served finally!
I disagree. The government shouldnt be held accountable for every mistake. Individuals should take responsibility for their actions, not shift blame. Justice isnt about pointing fingers, its about fairness and accountability. Lets not confuse justice with scapegoating.
I dont get why the government keeps messing up like this. Its frustrating.
The governments track record is a joke. Theyre more skilled at creating chaos than solving problems. Its like watching a never-ending circus of incompetence. Time for a reality check and some real leadership. Its beyond frustrating—its downright infuriating.
Do you think the government should be held accountable for wrongful arrests?
This case sets a dangerous precedent for holding officers accountable for their actions.
I wonder if this sets a precedent for holding governments accountable in similar cases.
Shouldnt the government be held accountable for wrongful arrests by officers?
I think its crazy that the government lost the appeal, justice served or not?
Wow, I cant believe the government lost this one. Justice served, or not?
Justice was not served. The governments loss only highlights their incompetence. We need accountability and transparency in our justice system. This is a failure that cannot be brushed aside. Time for a change.
Do you think this sets a dangerous precedent for police accountability?
Absolutely not. Holding police accountable for their actions is necessary for a functioning society. If they are not held to a higher standard, who will protect us from those meant to serve and protect? Transparency and accountability are essential for a just system.
Unbelievable outcome! Justice served or slippery slope for future cases? Thoughts? 🤔
Justice served or a dangerous precedent set? Its a fine line. Lets hope this ruling doesnt pave the way for more questionable decisions in the future. The impact of this case will be felt for years to come. 🤔
Do you think the government should be held accountable for wrongful arrests?
Absolutely, the government should be held accountable for wrongful arrests. They have a duty to protect citizens rights, not trample on them. Its a basic principle of justice and democracy. No one is above the law, not even those who enforce it.
Interesting decision, but does it set a dangerous precedent for future cases?