Illegal drug charges filed vs 2 cops, PAO lawyer

DAVAO CITY — Illegal drugs charges were filed against two policemen and a lawyer at the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) here for reportedly aiding a suspected big-time drug financier.

The Davao City Police Office filed charges of violation of Article 211 of the Revised Penal Code against PO2 Enrique Ayao Jr. and PO3 Arnold Dechavez for qualified bribery, obstruction of justice and violation of the Comprehensive Anti-Illegal Drugs Act.

Ayao and Dechavez were said to have been part of the drug syndicate led by one Luis Francisco, who was killed last Oct. 4.

A separate rape case has been filed against Dechavez, who has reportedly escaped last week from the DCPO headquarters inside Camp Leonor here.

Meanwhile, Efren Misamin of the Investigation Division of the city police office, filed charges against Marlon Melodias for alleged indirect and direct bribery and obstruction of justice for his alleged ties with Francisco, whom he represented in court for an illegal drugs case in 2004.

Mayor Rodrigo Duterte was particularly irked with the said PAO lawyer for not only representing Francisco but also for reportedly receiving huge amounts of cash, reportedly up to as much as P300,000 a month as well as brand new vehicles.

Duterte expressed dismay that instead of representing the poor in legal cases, PAO lawyers have defended moneyed drug lords such as Francisco.

"You could easily tell a poor man from a rich man. Why would you represent somebody who is moneyed in a drug case? These people could easily afford private lawyers with all their money," Duterte said.

Several witnesses have come out to testify against Ayao, Dechavez and Melodias, who were all identified as close associates of Fransisco.

Melodias reportedly said the charges would give him the chance to clear his name in court.