Police Academy Chief Calls for Modern Training Facility to Meet Evolving Crime Threats

Superintendent Rodney Ellis has called on the government to construct a modern police academy capable of preparing officers to combat increasingly sophisticated crime, arguing that investment in training is essential to safeguarding the nation’s future.

Delivering the Commandant’s Report during the graduation ceremony for the 50th Recruit Training Course at the Sir Wright F. George Police Academy, Ellis said the existing facility is no longer sufficient to meet the demands of modern policing and should be replaced with a purpose-built academy offering advanced and continuous professional training.

“We need a modern police academy. Not simply a facility for recruit training, but a centre for continuous professional development throughout an officer’s career,” Ellis said. 

He noted that while Antigua and Barbuda has invested heavily in healthcare and education, similar attention must now be given to strengthening national security.

“Our nation continues to grow. Our Prime Minister has spoken about building an economic powerhouse and indeed we are making remarkable progress,” Ellis said. “However, every successful nation must be built upon three essential pillars: healthcare, education and security.” 

Ellis acknowledged the construction of modern police stations in St. John’s, Woodlands and All Saints but said the force’s training infrastructure has not kept pace.

“We have witnessed construction of modern police stations in St. John’s, Woodlands, All Saints. These developments are commendable. But now we need a modern police academy,” he said. “If you glance behind you today, you will see the current condition of our academy facility.” 

He said the academy should be transformed into a fully equipped institution capable of delivering specialized instruction throughout an officer’s career rather than limiting its role to basic recruit training.

Ellis warned that criminals are becoming more technologically advanced, requiring law enforcement agencies to continually expand their capabilities.

“Criminals continue to become more sophisticated, utilising advanced technology and increasingly complex methods,” he said. “Consequently, law enforcement must remain one step ahead through continuous education, specialised training and professional development.” 

He appealed to Prime Minister Gaston Browne, Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin and other stakeholders to support construction of a new academy on the current site.

“I therefore respectfully appeal to the Honourable Prime Minister, the Honourable Attorney General and all relevant stakeholders to support the construction of a modern, fully equipped police academy on this very site,” Ellis said. 

According to Ellis, the proposed facility could partner with the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus to provide specialised training in leadership development, legal studies, forensic science, cybercrime investigations and intelligence-led policing.

“Such a facility would enable us to partner with the University of the West Indies Five Islands Campus to deliver specialised courses in leadership development, legal studies, forensic science, cybercrime investigation, intelligence-led policing and other professional programmes that will strengthen policing for generations to come,” he said. 

Ellis said investment in police training should be viewed as an investment in the country’s overall security.

“Investment in training is an investment in national security,” he said. 

The appeal came as the academy celebrated a historic milestone with the graduation of its 50th recruit training course. Ellis reported that 43 recruits successfully completed the six-month programme, achieving a 95.6 percent pass rate. 

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