Police Commissioner Apologises for Past Shortcomings, Pledges Greater Accountability

Commissioner of Police Everton Jeffers has publicly apologised to members of the public who have been let down by the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda, acknowledging that the organisation has at times fallen short of the standards expected while pledging to strengthen professionalism and accountability.

Addressing graduates of the 50th Recruit Training Course at the Sir Wright F. George Police Academy, Jeffers said the force has made significant progress over the years but must continue working to improve public confidence.

“As Commissioner of Police, I acknowledge that we may not always get everything right, and there have been times when our actions or service may have fallen short of the standards that are expected,” Jeffers said. 

The commissioner then offered what amounted to a public apology on behalf of the organisation.

“Therefore, I use this platform to offer my sincerest apologies to anyone who may have been wronged, disappointed or offended by the action or conduct of any member of this organisation,” he said. 

Jeffers told the audience that acknowledging the force’s shortcomings should not be viewed as a sign of weakness but rather as an opportunity to improve.

“While we are proud of the significant progress we have made over the years, we also recognise that there’s still room for improvement. We do not view this as weakness, but rather as an opportunity to grow, to learn and to serve better,” he said. 

He pledged that the police administration would continue working to address deficiencies within the organisation.

“I pledge my unwavering commitment that we will continue to address our shortcomings, strengthen our weaknesses, uphold the high standards of professionalism and accountability, and strive each day to provide the quality of service you so rightly deserve,” Jeffers said. 

Earlier in his address, Jeffers reminded the 43 graduating recruits that public service must remain at the heart of policing, describing the profession as a “sacred trust” rather than simply a job. The academy’s latest graduating class completed the six-month training programme with a 95.6 percent pass rate. 

He urged the new officers to exercise their authority with fairness, humility, compassion and integrity, stressing that quality policing requires professionalism in every interaction with the public.

“There are no shortcuts to providing top quality service to the public. Each complaint must be properly investigated with the highest level of professionalism, courtesy and respect for the rights and dignity of everyone,” he said. 

Jeffers also warned the recruits that the organisation would not tolerate conduct that undermines public confidence.

“There is no tolerance for unprofessionalism, tardiness and unproductivity within this organisation,” he said. “As a young officer, your honesty and integrity will be tested. However, I urge you to do the right thing at all times, even when no one is watching.” 

He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to building a police force that earns and maintains the trust of the communities it serves through professionalism, accountability and continuous improvement.

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