Anguilla Officials File For Bench Warrant To Arrest Scott Hapgood

DARIEN, CT — Officials in Anguilla are applying for bench warrant for the arrest of Scott Hapgood, the Darien resident who did not return to the Caribbean island this week for a hearing in his manslaughter case.

In a post on Anguilla Governor's Facebook page, Attorney General Dwight Horsford announced the decision to seek the bench warrant, which means that Anguilla considers Hapgood to be a fugitive.

"Hapgood did not present himself before the Court. In a letter e-mailed late on Sunday 10 November, his legal team notified the presiding magistrate that they had advised their client not to return to Anguilla," Horsford wrote. "The letter further stated that this advice rested on concerns for their client’s safety and the fairness of the judicial process in Anguilla. Both concerns are totally groundless.

"Following Hapgood’s failure to appear in Court the presiding magistrate adjourned for a further hearing. At that hearing, he will make a final determination of the matter at hand.

"In consequence of this wilful defiance of the High Court Order, a bench warrant will be sought from the High Court Judge for his arrest. When this is shortly obtained this will be circulated through Interpol to police forces around the world. The bail bond of [Eastern Caribbean]$200,000.00 has been forfeited. Other formal processes will now commence regarding Hapgood who is now a fugitive."

"We've seen the letter and have no comment," he told Patch.

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Hapgood was scheduled to appear at the final hearing of the Preliminary Inquest on Monday, but he did not attend because his legal team was unable to obtain assurances that authorities would protect him, and that he would be allowed to return to the United States following the hearing.

The attorneys have said that Hapgood has received death threats since the April incident, and they have questioned the fairness of the proceedings.

Hapgood stands accused of manslaughter in connection with the death of hotel worker Kenny Mitchel, who died following an altercation in Hapgood's hotel room with his young daughters present. Hapgood has steadfastly maintained that he acted in self-defense because Mitchel was attempting to rob him and his family.

A recently released toxicology report says that Mitchel died from a lethal amount of cocaine in his system and not Hapgood's actions.

"The Crown remains determined to progress this case," Horsford continued. "It will do so - as it has since proceedings started – objectively, fairly, with full regard for the rule of law and the principles of natural justice, including the presumption of innocence. Hapgood's decision to abscond will not allow him to evade justice."

Anguilla Gov. Tim Foy agreed with Horsford sentiments that Hapgood's complaints are "groundless."

"Like me, he should have no concerns regarding his safety," Foy said on Facebook. "Anguillians are a law abiding and peaceful people as clearly evidenced during his previous court appearances. He should share my confidence in the Royal Anguilla Police Force and the arrangements made for his return - arrangements which his own legal team and visiting State Department officials complimented during his previous appearances.

"He should have no reason to be concerned about the public mood here. Claims made by his advisers and supporters of 'growing unrest' because of this matter simply defies belief. Nothing could be further from the truth. I invite those making or repeating these fabrications - including those in public office - to acquaint themselves with the facts by visiting us. They are welcome any time to enjoy the peace, serenity and calm of our island as thousands of visitors do every year."