Homicide raps vs Baldwin, 11 others referred to DOJ

MANILA, Philippines —  The police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) has recommended charges of homicide and reckless imprudence resulting in homicide against resigned Ateneo Blue Eagles head coach Tab Baldwin and 11 others.

Along with its recommended charges for anti-hazing violations, the CIDG said the complaints have been referred to the Department of Justice (DOJ) for evaluation and case build-up.

Baldwin and other staff members of the Ateneo de Manila University’s basketball team are being probed after the deaths of student-athletes Rene Baterbonia and Divine Adili.

CIDG director Maj. Gen. Robert Morico II on Tuesday met with Baterbonia’s family to brief them on the results of the investigation into the June 8 drowning in Dipaculao, Aurora.

Probers presented a timeline of the incident, the evidence gathered and charges recommended against Baldwin and others.

Police disclosed that another respondent was included in the complaints referred to the DOJ, although authorities did not identify the person.

Morico told the family of Baterbonia that Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. had assigned a team of PNP lawyers to assist probers and monitor the progress of the case.

The DOJ will study the CIDG’s supplemental referral.-  Ghio Ong