A 32-year-old female is claiming that she was physically abused by two male police officers today at her bar – Cheaperz – located in Soufriere.
A relative who requested anonymity told St. Lucia News Online (SNO) that the owner, Carshiner Clavier, was reportedly abused by the police officers during an arrest, which all began as a simple issue.
The relative said the incident stemmed from Clavier placing a few empty crates on double yellow lines on the road next to her bar, in order to secure a spot for the Windward and Leeward Brewery Ltd truck to offload her delivery of drinks.
“This usually is common practice by all bar owners in the area and the police never seem to have a problem with this temporary measure until today,” the relative said.
According to her, the two male police officers proceeded to remove the crates without the knowledge of the bar staff and as soon as they realised that the crates were removed, the staff placed it back.
The staff thought that it was removed by someone in the area, who was just up to mischief.
It was only after two policemen from the Soufriere Police Station entered the bar and asked Clavier to remove the crates, it was established that they were the ones who had removed it in the beginning.
The relative said Clavier explained to the police that she has been doing that for years and no one never interfered with her. This sparked an argument between her and the two policemen.
The relative said the officers were already under the impression that the bar owner was aware that they had initially removed the crates from the yellow lines and was upset that it was put there again.
It is alleged that one of the male officers rushed in behind the bar and grabbed Clavier from her top and wrestled her to the ground and in the process exposed her breasts.
A scuffle ensued and Clavier was allegedly rammed into a door and dragged outside.
The relative said: “In full view of the public with her blouse almost ripped off her body exposing her half nakedness, she was then taken to the police station where she is being detained.”
Clavier’s bar is equipped with six CCTV cameras. However, it is unclear if the cameras were on at that time. The family hopes to retrieve the video image and provide it to the authorities, revealing the truth.
Clavier’s brother was also arrested for allegedly standing up for his sister.
Meanwhile, a senior officer of the Soufriere Police Station told St. Lucia News Online (SNO) that he is unaware that his officers physically abused Clavier.
The inspector said the officers reported that Clavier was abusive towards them and even tore off their uniforms. She is expected to be charged with damage to property and causing obstruction.