Bar Association demands probe into attorney’s ‘malicious prosecution’

The Barbados Bar Association (BBA) has called for a “thorough” investigation into the “malicious prosecution” by police of attorney-at-law Lani Daisley, whom the High Court has awarded $373 904 in damages and costs to be paid by the state.

 

President of the Bar, Kaye Williams, told Barbados TODAY that an urgent probe by the “relevant authorities” should specifically address the conduct of two police officers involved in the matter.

 

“Such incidents not only violate the rights of individual attorneys but also threaten the integrity of the justice system as a whole,” Williams declared.

 

“It is an opportunity to implement meaningful reforms to prevent any recurrence of such a miscarriage and perversion of justice. The Barbados Bar Association will continue to advocate for justice, accountability, and the protection of the fundamental rights of all citizens.”

 

She insisted that Daisley’s vindication is a victory for justice, but it is also a stark reminder of the work that remains to ensure that those tasked with upholding the law do so with fairness, integrity, and respect for the rights of all.

 

Tracing the history of the case, Williams explained that the “ordeal” began in 2012, when Daisley, while lawfully attempting to represent her client, was physically assaulted, placed in a headlock, and forcibly dragged down a flight of stairs, effectively ejecting her from the premises.

 

“Following this appalling act,” the legal practitioners’ spokesperson pointed out, “the evidence before the court found that two police officers conspired and created baseless charges against her, alleging that she resisted arrest, assaulted police officers and trespassed on the premises. The Court found that the two police officers went as far as to fabricate evidence and witness testimony against Ms. Daisley. These charges have since been proven by the court as unfounded, and she has been fully exonerated.”

 

Williams said that this case underscores several critical issues that demand urgent attention, including abuse of power, accountability and due process.

 

“The incident highlights the grave misuse of authority by the Barbados Police Service,” Williams said. “Public trust in the justice system is of paramount importance, and such an incident only serves to undermine that trust.”

 

Stating that the Bar “unequivocally” stands in full support of Daisley, president Williams said the attorney endured a “malicious prosecution” stemming from what has been determined to be an egregious abuse of power by state actors.’

 

The Bar head contended that lawyers play an essential role in safeguarding the rights of their clients. She argued that for years, attorneys have complained of threats and obstacles encountered while fulfilling their professional duties.

 

Resilience against injustice is another critical issue which Williams suggested is highlighted by this case.

 

“Ms Daisley’s remarkable courage and resilience in confronting these fabricated allegations, sets an inspiring example for the legal profession and society at large,” said Williams.

 

“The incident raises significant questions about the accountability mechanisms in place for law enforcement and the adherence to principles of procedural fairness within our justice system. Two police officers have intentionally perjured themselves in a court of law to actively pervert the course of justice,” she declared.

 

Delays in the court system are also of concern to the Bar as reflected in this case.

 

Williams said: “The events described“occurred as long ago as 2012. It is unconscionable that it has taken a full 12 years to have the case disposed of.”

 

The Bar said it is deeply committed to protecting the rule of law and to uphold the safety and security of the citizens of Barbados.

 

At the same time, it said it equally stands in defending the independence of the legal profession, and ensuring that all individuals, including attorneys-at-law, are treated with dignity and fairness under the law.

Police Commissioner Richard Boyce did not immediately respond to a written request by Barbados TODAY for comment.