ATTORNEY General John Jeremie has issued a public apology to firearms dealer Brent Thomas, acknowledging the “gross abuse of power” he endured when he was unlawfully detained in Barbados and forcibly returned to this country.

In a significant reversal, the State has officially withdrawn its appeal of a High Court ruling that had found the actions against Thomas to be unconstitutional.

The decision was formalised in a letter dated September 16, where the Attorney General’s office signalled its intent to enter into “good faith negotiations” with Thomas and his company, Specialist Shooters Training Centre Ltd, to determine a settlement for constitutional damages and legal costs.