After completing an internal review of the investigation into the death of two-year-old Cayman Brac child, Alissady Azalea Powell, that occurred on 26 July, 2022, Commissioner of Police, Derek Byrne, has approved the commission of an independent specialist team to review the case.

Mr Byrne said, “the police are aware of the public interest in this tragic case, none more so than in Cayman Brac.  At a recent community meeting I attended there, they reiterated their desire for answers in this case.  It is important we do everything we can to aid this investigation, and bringing in this specialist team is an important next step”.

The RCIPS have been fortunate to secure the services of former Detective Chief Superintendent Dr. Russell Wate QPM, who is a highly experienced child death expert.  Dr. Wate will be supported by a child forensic psychologist and a forensic pathologist, also from the UK, alongside the RCIPS team involved in investigating the case.  The family of Alissady, have been informed of the independent review and the arrival of the specialist team.

Dr. Wate will be arriving in Grand Cayman Monday 29 May to begin his review before travelling to Cayman Brac.