Cop who shot student axed

MANILA, Philippines — The Quezon City People’s Law Enforcement Board (PLEB) has dismissed from the service a police officer who shot a 22-year-old student in February.

The PLEB, in a 12-page decision dated March 22, found Cpl. Reymark Rigor guilty of grave misconduct.

“This dismissal shall carry with it the cancellation of his eligibility, forfeiture of retirement benefits and disqualification for re-employment in any government service,” the decision read.

The decision was signed by PLEB chairman Rafael Vicente Calinisan, members Restituto Malangen, Antonio Ma. Benito Calma, Sherwin Visconde and Colleen Infante-Calleja.

The case stemmed from a shooting incident in Barangay Sacred Heart on Feb. 8 wherein a drunk Rigor shot Adrianne Castor.

3 others demoted

The PLEB also demoted Senior M/ Sgt. Neleazar Torrijos, S/Sgt. Fernan Concepcion and Cpl. Jimbeam Fernandez for grave neglect of duty for not responding to the shooting even if they were near the scene.

Even if he was found guilty of grave misconduct for trying to cover up Rigor’s crime, investigator S/Sgt. Bryan Busto was only demoted after the PLEB considered the awards and commendations he has received as mitigating circumstances.

In reaching its decision on Rigor, the PLEB said the policeman took advantage of superior strength as he used his handgun on an unarmed person.

The PLEB threw out Rigor’s argument that he only accidentally discharged his firearm and being drunk, had no intention to harm or kill Castor.

“Rigor did not present any proof as to the amount and kind of liquor he drank at the time of the incident. He merely alleged in his answer that he was intoxicated and that his motorcycle crashed,” the PLEB said.

The PLEB exonerated S/Sgt. Jayson Osmena as it was established he was no longer in the area when the crime was committed.

It also acquitted Cpl. Jaycee Tordil as it was not proven he was involved in the concealment of the slug, which was considered evidence.