Jo Farrell Challenges SNP Government’s Move on Sheku Bayoh Inquiry
Jo Farrell contests the SNP’s plan to turn the Sheku Bayoh inquiry into a criminal investigation, raising concerns about police accountability.
Sheku Bayoh, Kirkcaldy, Fife, Scotland, Police Scotland
Kirkcaldy: Police Scotland’s chief constable, Jo Farrell, is taking legal action. She’s challenging the SNP’s plan to expand the Sheku Bayoh inquiry. This move could lead to criminal charges against officers involved in the case.
The Deputy First Minister, Kate Forbes, wants to broaden the inquiry. She aims to investigate the circumstances surrounding Bayoh’s death in custody. Currently, the inquiry doesn’t cover the Crown Office’s 2018 decision not to prosecute anyone.
Sheku Bayoh died in May 2015 after being restrained by six officers. The inquiry has already cost taxpayers £23.8 million. Farrell is seeking a judicial review to ensure the inquiry’s process is lawful.
The review will be heard in Edinburgh on Wednesday. Deputy Chief Constable Alan Speirs supports the inquiry and emphasizes the need for transparency. He stated that Police Scotland is committed to providing answers for Bayoh’s family.
However, the Bayoh family’s lawyer, Aamer Anwar, criticized the police’s actions. He believes they are trying to delay the inquiry and prevent the truth from coming out. Bayoh’s sister expressed frustration, feeling betrayed by the police’s legal maneuvers.
Sheku Bayoh, a father of two, died after officers used pepper spray and restraints. Witnesses reported seeing him with a knife, but he reportedly didn’t have one when police arrived. The post-mortem indicated he had drugs in his system at the time of death.
The Crown Office has stated it supports the inquiry and respects the Bayoh family’s position. They have thoroughly examined the case and reserved the right to prosecute if necessary. The Scottish Government has refrained from commenting while legal proceedings are ongoing.