Antigua and Barbuda's newest police officers received a pointed challenge Thursday: the everyday decisions they make on the job — from traffic stops to criminal investigations — will determine how much the public trusts the Royal Police Force.
According to Antigua News Room, Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin delivered that message at the graduation ceremony for the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda's 50th Recruit Training Course, calling on the new officers to lead with professionalism, fairness and integrity in every assignment.
Benjamin told the graduates that policing goes beyond law enforcement. It is, he said, fundamentally about serving the public with consistency and respect — and that every officer-citizen interaction carries lasting consequences.
"There are no shortcuts to providing top-quality service to the public," he said. "Each complaint must be properly investigated with the highest level of professionalism and respect for the rights and dignity of everyone."
He reminded the graduates that the authority conferred on them comes with serious responsibility.
"Today, you are not simply receiving a certificate of completion," Benjamin said. "You are accepting a sacred trust. 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."
Benjamin also cautioned the new officers against viewing policing as an ordinary occupation with fixed hours and a routine paycheck.
"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.
The Attorney General urged the graduates to remain dependable, courteous and composed — especially under pressure.
"We need men and women who are dependable, courteous, polite and sensitive to the needs of others," Benjamin said. "Men and women who, even in the face of adversity, can keep their composure and remain professionals."
Benjamin also directed his remarks at senior officers, urging them to actively mentor the incoming class and take responsibility for guiding new recruits as they begin their careers.
"They need your support and guidance in order to be successful," he said. "You are responsible to provide some leadership and to ensure that they do not get lost along the way."
The ceremony marked a significant milestone for the Royal Police Force, celebrating the completion of its 50th recruit training course and welcoming a new cohort of officers into active service.
