NASSAU- Police have cleared Central and South Eleuthera MP Stephen “Hank” Johnson in an assault probe.
He finally broke his silence as rumours persisted that police had charged him.
The false claims prompted calls from PLP chairman Fred Mitchell for his resignation from Parliament and as chairman of Road Traffic.
Police cleared Johnson after he was able to prove that he was not on the island when the assault allegedly occurred, the statement said.
“As Mr Johnson was able to prove that he was not on the island when the incident allegedly occurred, police did not charge him.
“Mr Johnson categorically denies that he, at any time, committed any criminal act. He condemns violence against anyone, especially women.”
However, Johnson said that the man accused of attacking him will appear before a magistrate on January 27 on a causing harm charge.
The charge stems from an incident where Johnson was attacked as he left a female friend’s home around 8am. Johnson thanked the police for their prompt response.
Police received a complaint against Johnson after the officers dealt with his report against his alleged attack, the statement said.
The suspect, who knows Johnson, is on police bail, pending his court appearance.
Addressing calls for his resignation, Johnson said, “Political mischief makers have suggested that I resign over this most unfortunate incident. There is no reason for me to step down from my parliamentary duties, as I am the victim in this matter.”
Johnson has assured his constituents that he would continue to carry out his parliamentary duties.
