Escudero tells cops not to ‘stand by’ and delay probe into QCPD death

Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero on Thursday told the Philippine National Police not to “stand by” and delay the investigation into the death of a 22-year-old man who was detained at the Quezon City Police District (QCPD).

The family of Genesis Argoncillo suspect foul play in his death. He was arrested and detained at Novaliches Police Station 4 for “alarm and scandal” last week after he was found not wearing a shirt in public.

Argoncillo had died while he was detained inside the QCPD jail and police are still determining the cause of his death.

In a tweet, Escudero said, “I urge and call on the PNP leadership to reconsider its decision to simply “stand by” (how ironic quite frankly) the findings of the QCPD on the death of Genesis Argoncillo and to, instead, fully investigate this matter.”

“Please do not wait for us to do your job for you,” Escudero added.

I urge and call on the PNP leadership to reconsider its decision to simply “stand by” (how ironic quite frankly) the findings of the QCPD on the death of Genesis Argoncillo and to, instead, fully investigate this matter. Please do not wait for us to do your job for you.

— Chiz Escudero (@SayChiz) June 21, 2018

Meanwhile, QCPD Director Chief Supt. Joselito Esquivel, Jr. denied allegations that police brutality led to the death Argoncillo.

Esquivel blamed QCPD’s “heavily congested” custodial facility for the death of Argoncillo, who reportedly complained of shortness of breath on June 19.

Esquivel vowed full transparency as the PNP investigates the case. “Should any police be involved, we assure the public and the family of the deceased of full transparency,” he said.   /vvp