WILLEMSTAD – A police officer from the Curaçao Police Force (KPC) stood trial on Friday, May 16, for firing at fleeing suspects during a pursuit in December 2021, an incident in which a minor was injured. The Public Prosecution Service (OM) is prosecuting the officer for attempted aggravated assault. 

The incident occurred on December 18, 2021, after the officer responded to a report of a car theft. The suspects fled the scene in a vehicle, prompting a police chase. During the pursuit, the officer fired several shots at the fleeing car. In the Wishi neighborhood, the vehicle came to a stop, and the suspects attempted to flee on foot. The officer then fired again, this time hitting one of the suspects—a minor. 

In court, the officer claimed he acted in self-defense. However, the prosecution argued that the situation did not justify the use of a firearm, stating that the officer did not comply with the official guidelines that govern police conduct. 

The prosecution has requested a suspended community service sentence of 50 hours with a one-year probation period, taking into account the officer’s position, the context of the incident, and the time that has passed since 2021. 

The verdict is expected on June 6. 

In a press statement, the Public Prosecution Service emphasized that police use of force is always subject to strict review. “The police play a vital role in maintaining public order and safety,” the statement read. “That’s why any use of force is critically assessed.”