HAMILTON, Bermuda, CMC – The Director of Public Prosecutions, Cindy Clarke, has warned persons making any threat against judicial officers that it will not be tolerated and that “firm and immediate action will follow”.
Clarke confirmed that threats had been made against one of her Crown Counsel recently within the precincts of the court and that the incident follows a recent matter in which a magistrate was similarly threatened in the execution of judicial functions.
“Let me be absolutely clear: threats directed at prosecutors or members of the judiciary strike at the very heart of our justice system. “Such conduct is not merely an affront to an individual officer of the court — it is an attack on the rule of law itself.
“The individuals charged in connection with these incidents have been remanded into custody. This reflects the seriousness with which the courts and this Department regard any attempt to intimidate judicial officers or prosecutors,” Clarke said.
She said that where credible threats are made, “firm and immediate action will follow” and that “an independent and fearless justice system depends upon prosecutors, magistrates and judges being able to discharge their constitutional duties without intimidation, harassment, or fear of reprisal.
“If threats or attempts at coercion corrupt our justice system, there will be grave consequences not only for those directly targeted but for public confidence in the administration of justice.
“Such behaviour will not be tolerated, and it will be met with the full force of the law; for this I wish to thank the Commissioner of Police and the members of the Bermuda Police Service for their quick response and engagement,” Clarke added.
In January last year, the DPP publicly called for enhanced court security measures, citing rising hostility within court precincts.
She said those concerns were raised to protect all participants in the justice process, including judicial officers, prosecutors, court staff, defendants, witnesses, and members of the public.
“These events underscore the urgency of that call. The courts must remain places where disputes are resolved by law, evidence, and reasoned judgment, not by intimidation or menace.
“The safety and integrity of our courts are essential to maintaining the rule of law in this jurisdiction.
“This Office will continue to work closely with law enforcement, the judiciary, and court administration to ensure that appropriate safeguards are in place. We will also continue to pursue, without hesitation, those who seek to undermine the administration of justice through threats or violence.
“The rule of law is the foundation of a democratic society. It must be protected: firmly, consistently, and without compromise,” Clarke said.
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