No, we don't have a robot bomb!

Monday 18 July 2016

In one of the more bizarre requests under the Freedom of Information law, Jersey Police have been asked if they possess a 'robot bomb" similar to that used by American police recently in Dallas.

Quite why someone would want to know that remains unclear - but in a break from usual practice, the Police have given a very clear answer: no.

In fact, they put it in more official language, as follows: "In accordance with the College of Policing Authorised Professional Practice, the States of Jersey Police has a full range of options to deal with firearms incidents in the Island. It is not our normal practice to comment on the specifics of our operational capability. However, in the given circumstances we are able to report that the tactic used in Dallas does not feature in Jersey's firearms training or response."

Last month, Dallas Police used a 'bomb robot' with a special device on an extension to kill Micah Johnson, a 25-year-old army veteran, who had shot five police officers dead and was threatening to kill more.

Other off beat questions have included how many people have had tattoos removed at the hospital and how much it’s cost. The answer: “Hospital policy has allowed people to have tattoos removed only if they are on the face or below the elbow and are causing emotional distress or adversely affecting employment. Since 2005 less than five people have had tattoos removed at the hospital under this policy. In view of the infrequency of tattoo removal, accurate costs and further details cannot be ascertained.”

And: “Can the States of Jersey confirm if they have a zombie attack preparedness plan? If yes, would you kindly release the public guidance that the States of Jersey would give out in the event of a localised, or global zombie outbreak? The answer: “The States of Jersey do not hold any specific plan with relation to preparing for, or dealing with, a zombie attack.”