Press Release: The dropping of several criminal charges controversially laid against an 82-year-old man has been welcomed by disability rights campaigners.
The Antigua and Barbuda Association of Persons with Disabilities (ABAPD) had expressed extreme alarm over a video circulated online showing police officers shoving Stedman ‘Scottie’ Scotland – who is said to suffer from a previous brain injury – before dragging him out of a St John’s business place. Onlookers can be heard protesting as the elderly man is handcuffed while lying face down on the ground before being forced into the trunk of an SUV.
Scotland was charged with several offences including disorderly conduct, resisting arrest and battery on police in a case that triggered public outrage. The fracas earlier this month appeared to have erupted over an alleged parking violation.
All charges were dropped on Monday when the octogenarian, who was on bail, appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate Dexter Wason.
The discontinuation of the case “demonstrates a commitment to fairness and justice for individuals with disabilities in Antigua and Barbuda”, ABAPD President Bernard Warner said in a statement.
Police are said to be conducting an internal investigation into the conduct of the officers involved.
“We would welcome the opportunity to collaborate with law enforcement on training initiatives that focus on ethical and appropriate methods for interacting with individuals with disabilities,” Warner continued.
“Our goal is to foster mutual understanding and ensure that future interactions align with the principles outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
“We look forward to continued collaboration to promote accessibility and justice for persons with disabilities,” he added.
Over the weekend, Warner publicly expressed “concern and dissatisfaction” with the arresting officers’ behaviour.
In an open letter to police, he had urged the force to drop charges against Scotland, who he described as a “law-abiding citizen” and an “outstanding” member of society.
“Mr Scotland has over 20 years of service as a bus driver for persons with disabilities and is now a person with a disability,” Warner added.
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