Democratic League of Women hails first female top cop

The women’s arm of the Democratic Labour Party has welcomed the appointment of Deputy Commissioner Sonia Boyce as the next Commissioner of Police, describing the historic move as an important opportunity to strengthen trust between the police and the public while advancing issues affecting women.

Democratic League of Women (DLW) president Amoy Gilding-Bourne said the appointment, due to take effect on Friday, marked “a welcomed and most important step in the right direction”.

She said: “When I heard that Ms Boyce was appointed as the new commissioner, I said to myself, yes.”

Boyce’s leadership presents “a vital opportunity for us to address women’s issues, strengthen trust, and foster meaningful collaboration between the police force and the wider public, especially as it relates to domestic violence matters”, said the DLW leader.

She expressed confidence that the incoming commissioner would continue to uphold the principles that have defined her career.

“I am very confident that in her new appointment, Ms Boyce will continue to be an advocate for justice, and she will continue to carry herself with the highest integrity, as is her standard.”

It was announced on Sunday that Deputy Commissioner Boyce will be appointed Commissioner of Police following the retirement of Commissioner Richard Boyce. She was selected after a recruitment process conducted by the Protective Services Commission.

DCP Boyce brings four decades of policing experience to the position, having joined the then Royal Barbados Police Force in 1986. During her career, she has held leadership roles in operational, investigative, administrative, and human resources divisions and has received national, regional, and international training in policing and executive leadership.

The DLW president said the organisation is looking forward to working with the incoming commissioner as she leads the Barbados Police Service:

“I wish you every success as you steer the force towards greater fairness, safety, and community partnership.” 

(LE)