Youths charged over Minister Seymour’s collision with excavator

Three juveniles were charged with a ‘reckless and negligent act’ on Wednesday in connection with the crash that left Labour and Border Control Minister Dwayne Seymour in hospital.

The minister suffered head injuries when his Chevy Tahoe collided with the overhanging arm of an excavator that had been moved to the side of the road in Bodden Town.

In a press release Wednesday morning, police confirmed that the three juveniles, who were arrested in the aftermath of the incident last August, have also been charged with damage to property and criminal trespass. They will appear in court on 21 Feb.

Police indicated at the time of the collision that the excavator had been moved from where it had been secured by its owner, creating a hazard in the road.

The charges against the youths were laid just days after Minister Seymour spoke publicly about the incident for the first time, telling fellow legislators in an emotional speech that he had feared for his life.

There was controversy at the time of the accident over why a blood alcohol sample was not taken from the minister following the crash.

Police and the Health Services Authority gave different versions of why the sample was not taken and an internal investigation was launched.

Wednesday morning’s press release from the RCIPS indicated, “Police actions were thoroughly reviewed, and discussions with HSA colleagues have been completed.

“Both parties have agreed a process moving forward which will help define roles and responsibilities when dealing with persons that are unable to give consent to the taking of a blood specimen following a collision.”

Commissioner of Police Kurt Walton has personally recommended changes to the section of the Traffic Law that deals with protection for hospital patients in cases where a test is needed.

The release indicates that the amendments – if actioned – would provide “further clarity for police and medical practitioners”.