By Bryan Manabat
bryan@mvariety.com
Variety News Staff
DEPARTMENT of Public Safety Commissioner Anthony I. Macaranas on Tuesday said DPS is ensuring “a transparent and unbiased investigation” into allegations that two police officers assaulted a man with a mental disability in Marpi on Dec. 19.
Macaranas said the Attorney General’s Investigation Division has been brought in to help ensure impartiality. “We brought in the AGID because there needs to be transparency, and I want to make sure the integrity of this case is maintained,” he said during a press conference.
The alleged assault was reported to DPS on Dec. 22 by the victim’s father. Macaranas said both officers were immediately placed on administrative duty, disarmed, and removed from street patrol pending the outcome of the investigation.
“To ensure a thorough and impartial investigation, DPS requested support from the Attorney General’s Office,” he said. “This partnership provides additional resources and helps uphold the integrity of the process.”
Macaranas said the case remains in its early stages, and DPS is withholding further details to avoid compromising the investigation. “I cannot divulge more because we’re still in the early stages,” he said. “But I assure you that when the investigation sheds more light, I will update you.”
He confirmed the victim was taken to the hospital by family members after the incident. Macaranas also ordered DPS Internal Affairs to conduct an administrative review while AGID handles the criminal investigation.
Macaranas stressed that an individual’s background does not change how officers are expected to treat the public. “Every officer must treat each person with respect and dignity. Rogue behavior is uncalled for and will not be tolerated,” he said.
He issued a public apology. “I extend my sincere apology to the victim for the actions of my officers,” he said. “I want this case fully investigated so we can get to the bottom of it and bring justice to the victim.”
Macaranas urged the community to continue trusting DPS. “When you call for help, the officers will still come and render the assistance you ask for. Our mission to protect and serve remains unchanged,” he said.
He added that any administrative decisions regarding the officers will depend on the findings of the investigation. “I cannot make any decisions right now until all findings are presented,” Macaranas said.
Bryan Manabat was a liberal arts student of Northern Marianas College where he also studied criminal justice. He is the recipient of the NMI Humanities Award as an Outstanding Teacher (Non-Classroom) in 2013, and has worked for the CNMI Motheread/Fatheread Literacy Program as lead facilitator.
