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Assistant Police Commissioner Calvin Brutus expressed serious concerns over what he described as a “fishing expedition” following a Wednesday night raid on his apartment at Police Headquarters. The raid, conducted by teams from the Special Organized Crime Unit (SOCU) and the SWAT Unit, was reportedly in connection with the more than 240 charges advised against Brutus by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
Speaking to the media after the “raid,”Brutus disclosed that he was returning home when the police, who had been waiting, approached him. “As soon as I got in the compound, they pulled up,” Brutus stated. “They didn’t indicate what they wanted, but that they had a warrant to search… I invited them, but just the person whose name is on the warrant.” However, he added, “It showed clearly they weren’t to keen or interested because they left.”
Brutus, who is facing accusations related to his businesses and alleged financial misconduct, took issue with the disproportionate show of force used by the police. “I’m concerned about the level of force displayed here tonight. There’s no indication that I’m a flight risk,” he said, adding that the SWAT unit, normally used in high-risk cases, was unjustified. “SWAT is for high-profile cases where the suspect or person of interest is expected to use violence. It’s disproportionate and uncalled for,” Brutus remarked.
Despite the raid, Brutus confirmed that the police did not enter his apartment, nor did they take any items. “No document was produced, no warrant shown,” he said, raising further concerns about the legality of the search. His lawyer echoed these sentiments, calling the operation a clear attempt to intimidate Brutus without cause. “No warrant was produced, no one entered the home. This is a fishing expedition,” the lawyer stated.
Brutus has been embroiled in legal issues for several months, with allegations of misconduct related to his and his wife’s businesses. He maintains that he had received permission from the Commissioner of Police under section 31 of the Police Act to engage in trade and business. “My company has never done business directly with the police force… I intend to vigorously defend these matters,” he said, insisting that both he and his wife have followed all necessary legal procedures.
Brutus also voiced fears for his safety and that of his family, citing the growing public and media pressure around his case. “Yes, I’m afraid… I’m concerned indeed for my safety and my family,” he admitted, pointing to inflammatory remarks in the media and social media as contributing factors.
His legal team plans to challenge the charges in court, with Brutus describing the situation as evidence fabrication. “This is clear evidence of manipulation… we will defend all allegations and are certain we will be victorious.”
The DPP’s advice to SOCU to file over 240 charges against Brutus marks a significant escalation in the ongoing investigation. Brutus has consistently denied the accusations, asserting that the allegations are politically motivated and aimed at tarnishing his reputation. The case is expected to proceed to court soon, where Brutus says the full details of the situation will be revealed.
