Guns stolen from CIB, Alvarez reassigned

Today the atmosphere at the Criminal Investigation Branch was gloomy as that departments’ Head of Command was relieved of duty. Although Assistant Inspector Simeon Alvarez understandably would not comment to the media about his removal as officer in charge of CIB, a press release issued by the police department says the decision was made as a result of burglaries at the CIB exhibit room on June thirtieth and July ninth which resulted in the theft of seven handguns and thirty six rounds of ammunition. All the items were stolen in broad daylight and during normal working hours at the Eastern Division on Queen Street. The station is currently undergoing renovations and sources say workmen at the site are being investigated. The thief or thieves gained entrance to the downstairs of the building by cutting off a padlock on a cross bar across a rear window. The police became aware of the burglary late Friday evening. While it is not believed that AIP Alvarez was personally involved, he has nevertheless been relieved of his command since police policy is that such exhibits should be transferred to the National Exhibit Keeper and not remain with the CIB. Alvarez will be reassigned pending the outcome of the investigation. At this time a replacement has not been named. Reports are that the morale of the CIB office is extremely low since Alvarez has been at the forefront of such cases as the Jackie Malic murder and is known for his determination to bring child molesters to justice. Before the appointment of a police press officer Alvarez functioned in this capacity in an informal way and was always accessible to the media. Today Commissioner Ornel Brooks declined to comment on Alvarez’s reassignment and Deputy Commissioner Hughington Williams vehemently denied that he is heading the investigation as stated in the press release. Apparently this job falls to Assistant Superintendent Allen Whylie.