Respected police spokesman remembered as ‘model officer’

The nation bade farewell to Inspector Rodney Inniss, widely regarded as one of its most respected and dedicated public servants, at a poignant ceremony at the Garfield Sobers Gymnasium attended by family, friends, and colleagues.

Inspector. Inniss, 53, the Police Communications and Public Affairs Officer who died on February 2, was remembered for his dedication, integrity, and transformative impact on the police service.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Antonio Forte paid tribute to the officer, noting that from the time he joined the police service in 1993, he exhibited qualities that would go on to define his sterling work.

He said: “From early in his career, Rodney displayed the traits of a successful police officer, demonstrating high levels of academia, professional decorum, discipline, loyalty, commitment and integrity.

“He served with passion and a sense of pride and dignity; whether it was as a regular patrolman on the beat, or as a traffic icon and administrator at the Traffic Division. He was a transformational mind, and persistently sought to enhance and evaluate standard operating procedures for the staff under his charge.”

Forte added: “Today we say our final goodbyes to a warm loving and simply decent stalwart of a man. A professional and loyal police officer; a father, a brother, a nephew, an uncle, a family man, a friend, but lastly a hero to all gathered here today.

“I am confident we can find the shared determination to overcome this difficult time. I know even now the spirit of Inspector Rodney Winston Inniss is urging all of us to be more patient and kinder. To be giving and caring . . . to have time for self but also for others. To find courage and strength to carry on. His life and memories need to be celebrated, personally as we knew him, but selflessly as he would want it.”

Beyond his career, Inspector Inniss was a devoted father to his daughters, a role he cherished deeply. His sister, Natalie Pierce, shared a touching tribute, recalling how his unwavering love and protection for his daughters defined him.

She said: “Rodney loved and protected these beautiful young ladies like a lion. His busy schedule never prevented him from doing whatever needed to be done for them. Even if he was a little late completing the task.

“Marissa often calls Rodney the best daddy ever. Rodney always checked in on his girl, even though Marissa was working in England, he would call and say: ‘I know you are at work, but I am just calling today. I love you, I wish you a good day.'”

Pierce noted Inspector Inniss’ commitment to his profession often placed him in difficult situations, witnessing and hearing things most would never have to. She stated that he carried out his duties with humility and respect, especially in his role as police spokesman.

His death left not only his family but an entire nation in mourning, with his sister acknowledging the overwhelming public grief and support.

She said: “After my brother’s passing, the immediate family went into a media blackout mode. We just could not deal with it, but we were still fed some of the tributes and comments from the Barbadian public. Since Barbados is grieving with us, I just want to take a moment to send our condolences to you as well.”

In her final words of dedication, Pierce expressed being proud of her brother, stating that his work was done, and his legacy would live on.

“Well, big brother, there have been loads of crying, and there will be loads more,” she said. “You are irreplaceable . . . you are loved by thousands and you will be missed by thousands. There are people who did not know you personally but still expressed their appreciation for you.

“Now it is time to rest. An officer and a gentleman. Go be with mum, Nicole, and all the other loved ones from the past. Your work on this earth has ended, but your legacy will continue.”