Commission looks into murder of Christopher Galvez
The murder of twenty-three year old Christopher Galvez remains under investigation. His family has expressed outrage and that seems to have struck a chord with the Minister of National Security. On New Year’s Eve, the man in charge of that portfolio, Carlos Perdomo, announced that his Ministry has assigned a three-person inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the slaying and a possible breach of procedures by police. Marion Ali today got the perspective from the police and the Galvez family.
Marion Ali, Reporting
The Galvez family had raised concerns over what they contend was the early release of Andre Aguilar, the only person police detained in connection with the murder of Christopher Galvez. Aguilar picked up Galvez from his home just prior to his murder on December twenty-second. The family is also looking for answers on the mysterious presence of a police corporal and the way he handed over the chain of custody to on-duty officers at the scene. In fact, the family has publicly accused the police of covering up Galvez’ murder. But now the Commission has been tasked with four main duties.
Clement Palacio, Police Press Officer
“The Minister saw it fit to convene this team of inquiry and of course they are tasked to do a number of things and of course at the completion the Minister will then take action. As part of the investigation I think all persons that are pertinent will be questioned by police and we will see what the recommendations or the decisions that they come up with will be.”
The Galvez family is welcoming of the initiative and is hopeful that the inquiry will yield tangible results.
Yolanda Schakron, Aunt of Christopher Galvez
“I feel very good about it. I feel that the outcry of the Galvez family was heard but the only thing is we have to wait and see what the Commission will say. I just hope that it’s fair and we’ll see. We’re very happy because we just want answers you know and it’s still hard to get any answers because the police are very quiet.”
The Commission will, among other things, investigate the allegations and whether there was any external interference or breach of procedures. Reporting for News Five, I am Marion Ali.
It is reported that the only person detained by police has since skipped town.
