Police Fatally Shoot Suspected Home Invader, Abdullah Joseph, Prompting Questions on Use of Force

In the early hours of the morning, at around 4.30am, a man was seen entering a property whose owners were reportedly out of the country. This suspicious activity prompted a quick response from both the Central Division Task Force and Cunupia Police Station. Upon their arrival at the scene, officers reportedly heard crashing sounds emanating from inside the building.

Inside, they were confronted by a man of mixed descent, later identified as 35-year-old Abdullah Joseph. Joseph was armed with a firearm and allegedly engaged the officers, putting their lives in immediate danger. In response to the threat and in accordance with their Use of Force Policy, the officers discharged their service-issued firearms.

The suspect sustained injuries during the encounter and was promptly transported to the Chaguanas Health Facility. Despite the best efforts of the medical staff, Joseph’s injuries proved fatal. The incident is bound to raise questions about the Use of Force Policy and the circumstances under which police are authorized to use lethal force.