Another Bermuda Police First?
It is reported that, during a weapons check 15/09/2024, a BPS armed officer has accidentally discharged his weapon giving rise to an investigation (read more here). Apparently no one was injured and no damage was caused to property
This occurring just weeks after the reports of the first time BPS officers had fired upon suspects – read more here.
How Does an Accidental Discharge Occur?
An accidental discharge occurs when an individual handling a firearm, fires the weapon unintentionally. How does this not result from negligence*?
*Negligence is a legal term meaning a failure to use reasonable care under the circumstances. But ‘Don’t Call It a “Negligent” Discharge‘.
The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) should follow strict protocols governing firearms safety. However, it does not appear the exact internal protocols are publicly available. Key components of firearms safety in policing generally, and as likely should be followed by the BPS, include Training and Certification: Police officers authorized to carry firearms undergo rigorous training, including the proper use, handling, and maintenance of firearms. Officers are typically certified after completing courses in weaponry, legal aspects of use, and scenario-based training.
Further reading:
The ABCs of Unintentional Discharges
