THE PSNI has been criticised for failing to release a photograph of Gediminas Stauskas – despite appealing for help from the public as part of its murder probe.
Police would have access to images of the Lithuanian national because three years ago he was jailed for manslaughter.
Detectives launched a murder investigation after the 32-year-old's body was found in a garage last Thursday on the Moor Road near Coalisland.
When asked why the PSNI has not released a photo to assist its investigation, a spokeswoman last night said: "No appropriate photograph is available. If that changes we will issue one."
Asked to explain what was meant by "appropriate", police said no further comment would be made.
SDLP Mid Ulster MLA Patsy McGlone said he could not understand why police would not release a photo.
"The Coalisland community is in shock following this murder and recent events. It's imperative that those behind it are brought to justice," he said.
"Political representatives have encouraged anyone with information to go to the police but it's just as important for the police to provide all available information to the public to help with their investigation.
"It is beyond me why they can't even provide a photo that would help jog people's memory and provide evidential leads that will piece together what happened to Mr Stauskas."
It is not the first time the PSNI has faced criticism for failing to release photographs.
In 2012 officers appealed for help in finding a west Belfast rapist who breached his probation conditions.
Rape crisis workers branded the public appeal pointless after the force initially said there was "no operational need" to release a photograph or description.
