Forensic pathologist Dr Valery Alexandrov has described the statements made by pathologist Dr Hughvon des Vignes against him as the act of a desperate man.
He made the comment to the T&T Guardian on Sunday in response to des Vignes’ threats that he would resign if Alexandrov’s contract was renewed.
During a press conference at the office of his attorney, Glenda Morean-Phillip, on St Vincent Street, Port-of-Spain, last Friday, des Vignes claimed he was the only person in the country qualified to conduct forensic autopsies.
He said through Morean-Phillip he had written to the Medical Board seeking information about Alexandrov’s qualifications.
“You don’t come here and say you’re working in forensic, so you’re a forensic pathologist. Let’s see your qualifications,” des Vignes had said, adding he also had queries about Dr Eslyn McDonald-Burris, who also performed autopsies at the centre.
But speaking in an interview from Michigan, USA, Alexandrov said his credentials were above board.
He also accused des Vignes of attempting to hold the Government to ransom by his threats of withholding his services.
It was only because of his continuous efforts and persistence that the Forensic Science Centre in St James were brought up to standard, Alexandrov said.
He said when he arrived in T&T the centre was in dire need of repairs and more modern equipment.
But he added, it was now state-of-the art.
Alexandrov, who is expected to return to the country later this month, said he held no ill will against des Vignes, as he was “bigger than that.” He added that he would also continue to work diligently to ensure the people got service.
“My priority is for the people. I am above all what Dr des Vignes has said because I know my credentials are unquestionable. It has not affected me negatively in any way in serving this country,” Alexandrov said.
Contacted on the matter Health Minister Dr Fuad Khan endorsed Alexandrov’s qualifications.
“Without a doubt we have examined his credentials and they are above board,” Khan added.
In March last year, des Vignes appeared before a Port-of-Spain magistrate charged for assault by beating in a case involving Alexandrov at the centre.