A policeman who was suspended from duty for the past two years has died suddenly.

Pc Darren Marcano passed away at the weekend, according to a message sent to members of the Bermuda Police Service, seen by The Royal Gazette.

He was arrested for an alleged criminal offence in July 2022 and remained suspended on full pay at the time of his death.

Darrin Simons, the Commissioner of Police, told The Royal Gazette: “I am sad to report the passing of Police Constable Darren Marcano, who served the Bermuda Police Service for 17 years and was a friend to many who knew him.

“I can confirm that at the time of his death, he was under investigation for a criminal offence and had been suspended for alleged gross misconduct since July 2022.

“We recognise that this situation is sensitive and complex, and our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time.

“We urge the community to respect their privacy as they navigate this loss.”

Mr Simons added: “The Bermuda Police Service is committed to maintaining transparency and integrity and we will continue to support all involved as we move forward.

“No doubt this news will raise many questions; however, given that there is an ongoing investigation into PC Marcano’s sudden passing, no further comment can be made.”

It is understood that foul play is not suspected.

Mr Simons said in September 2022 that the constable was arrested on July 28, 2022 and was suspended, with pay, for alleged gross misconduct.

He would not give details of the alleged crime.

Mr Simons said the Police (Conduct) Orders 2016 required that all suspensions had to be with full pay.

The commissioner said then: “I fully appreciate the public will want to know more about this matter and rightly so; it involves criminal allegations against a serving police officer. But, as charges have yet to be laid, it is not appropriate to release any more information at this time.”

Pc Marcano is understood to have been from Trinidad and to have been a police officer there before he joined the BPS.

Inspector David Bhagwan, the chairman of the Bermuda Police Association, said this week that relatives of the deceased had arrived on island and were receiving help from the BPA.

“At this time, we are not going to release any statement,” he added.

It was reported in July that seven police officers were suspended from duty while under investigation for allegations of gross misconduct and criminality.