INDECOM probes Barnett assault claim

The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) has launched a probe into allegations that the man accused of killing a Clarendon mother and her four children was assaulted while in police custody.

The oversight body said it was prompted by media reports of Rushane Barnett reportedly raising the allegation during his first appearance before the Home Circuit Court on Tuesday.

INDECOM said on Wednesday that a team visited the police lock-up, where a preliminary interview was conducted with Barnett in relation to the allegations.

The commission said it sought medical intervention for Barnett and was assured by the custody inspector that steps will be taken to facilitate a doctor's visit as soon as possible.

As part of the probe, INDECOM says it will obtain a recorded statement from Barnett and request the official transcript of the court proceedings to verify the alleged comments.