Police recruits urged to be model officers

The island’s newest police recruits were reminded that integrity, trust, and service to community must guide their careers as they were officially sworn in during a ceremony at the District ‘A’ Police Station on Thursday.

Speaking to the 42 trainees, who will undergo training at the Regional Police Training Centre, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Stephen Herbert said the moment marked the beginning of an honourable career..

“Today, as you stand on the threshold of a noble and impactful career, and in the presence of your family and friends, I want to draw your attention to the profound responsibilities and privileges that you will hold in your office,” Herbert told the recruits.

He stressed that policing went far beyond enforcing laws, describing the role of an officer as being “a pillar of trust, a guardian of peace and a beacon of integrity within your communities.”

During his address, Herbert also stressed the importance of integrity, which he described as essential to effective policing and public confidence.

“Integrity is a character trait, not just a word. It comes from within and is one of the cornerstones of effective policing,” he said. 

“It is that quality which will help you to earn the respect and trust of the people you serve. But once lost, it will never be regained.”

Herbert urged the recruits to act honestly and ethically at all times, even when they felt no one was watching. He said integrity must guide their decision-making, ensuring that actions taken are fair, just, and always in the best interest of the communities they serve.

“Your role is not just to uphold the law, but also to build bridges of understanding and compassion,” he added, encouraging the recruits to engage meaningfully with communities, listen to concerns, and treat everyone with dignity and respect.

By doing so, he said, officers would help to foster safer and more united communities across the island.

As the recruits prepare to begin their formal training, Herbert encouraged them to remain grounded in their values, support each other, and stay focused on personal and professional growth.

“Life at the Regional Police Training Centre will offer you opportunities, and I encourage you to embrace them,” he said. 

“There are many achievements on offer at the end of your training, but you must work hard and set goals to lay hold of them.”