New police officers trained in customer service

Superintendent Louisa Benjamin-Quashie, Commandant of the Sir Wright F. George Police Training Academy, emphasized the importance of customer service and community engagement as critical components of the training program for Course 49.

Speaking during the graduation ceremony, Benjamin outlined the comprehensive training undertaken by the recruits, designed to prepare them for the multifaceted demands of modern policing and firefighting.

“Community engagement and professionalism were key areas of focus throughout this training,” Benjamin stated. “Recruits were taught how to interact effectively with the public, fostering trust and ensuring accessibility in every community they serve.”

Benjamin detailed the recruits’ exposure to practical applications of their training, particularly in law enforcement. “Recruits participated in special tactical operations involving multiple searches and the execution of warrants,” she explained. “These exercises not only reinforced their theoretical knowledge but also resulted in arrests and convictions, showcasing their readiness to serve.”

The recruits also gained firsthand experience in courtroom procedures. “Visits to the Magistrate and High Courts allowed them to observe legal processes and engage in activities such as recording caution statements, conducting interviews, and preparing cases,” Benjamin noted.

For the firefighter trainees among the cohort, the program included modules on fire safety, rescue operations, and the use of modern equipment. Benjamin highlighted that these recruits demonstrated the same level of dedication as their counterparts in law enforcement.

Additionally, the recruits benefited from specialized instruction provided by visiting facilitators, who addressed topics such as mental health, ethics, and leadership. “This holistic approach ensures that recruits are well-rounded and equipped to handle the complexities of their roles,” Benjamin said.

Benjamin acknowledged the unique circumstances of this cohort, which was the first to undergo training outside the academy’s traditional compound. She praised the resilience of both the recruits and the training staff in adapting to this change.

“Despite these challenges, Course 49 excelled, achieving an overall average score of 81%, with the highest individual score reaching 91%,” she remarked.

Benjamin concluded by reminding the recruits of their responsibilities to the public. “Policing is not just about enforcing laws—it’s about building relationships and maintaining trust within our communities,” she said. “You are the future of public safety, and the training you have received is a reflection of the high standards expected of you.”

The ceremony celebrated the accomplishments of Course 49 while reinforcing the need for continuous investment in law enforcement and firefighting training to ensure a safer, more secure Antigua and Barbuda.

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