Commissioner of Police Everton Jeffers has called on 43 newly graduated officers to ground their careers in public service, warning that unprofessionalism will not be tolerated within the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda.
According to Antigua News Room, Jeffers delivered the address at the graduation ceremony for the 50th Recruit Training Course, held at the Sir Wright F. George Police Academy. He told the recruits they were not merely entering a profession but accepting a solemn responsibility to the people of Antigua and Barbuda.
"As your Commander in Chief, it is important that I let you know that policing is not only an eight-hour job. It is not for clock watchers or those who simply look forward to a paycheck," he said. "Today, you're not just simply receiving a certificate of completion. You are accepting a sacred trust."
The 43 recruits successfully completed a six-month training programme, achieving an overall pass rate of 95.6 percent.
Jeffers made clear that the authority vested in police officers carries with it an obligation to act in the public interest at all times. "From this day forward, you are the guardians of the law, protectors of the vulnerable and ambassadors of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda," he said. "The authority you now carry is not a privilege for you to abuse, but a responsibility to exercise with fairness, humility, compassion and unwavering integrity."
The commissioner emphasised that quality public service must underpin every aspect of an officer's work, leaving no room for shortcuts. "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 outlined the personal qualities he expects officers to demonstrate, arguing that technical training alone is insufficient. "We need men and women who are dependable, courteous, polite and sensitive to the needs of others," he said, adding that officers must maintain composure and professionalism even under difficult circumstances.
He issued a direct warning to the graduates regarding conduct that could erode public trust. "There is no tolerance for unprofessionalism, tardiness and unproductivity within this organisation," Jeffers 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."
Jeffers also turned his attention to senior officers, calling on them to serve as mentors for the incoming recruits. "To my senior officers, I will be calling upon you to be positive examples and role models for these young officers to emulate," he said. "They need your support and guidance in order to be successful in their careers. You are responsible to provide leadership and to ensure that they do not get lost along the way."
The commissioner closed his address with a reminder of what the badge represents. "Your badge represents far more than authority. It represents sacrifice, honour, courage and service. Wear it with humility. Protect it with integrity. Live worthy of it every single day."
