New police commissioner pledges reform, accountability, public trust

The first woman to lead The Barbados Police Service was sworn in on Friday, pledging sweeping changes to strengthen accountability, modernise policing and rebuild public trust.

Speaking during her inauguration ceremony at State House before acting President Jeffrey Gibson, Prime Minister Mia Mottley, senior government officials and members of the security services, Commissioner Sonia Boyce said she was proud of her appointment and stressed that earning and maintaining public trust would be central to her leadership.

Prime Minister Mia Mottley speaking to next to Acting President Jeffrey Douglas Gibson, during the evening’s swearing in ceremony (Photo credit: Shamar Blunt / Barbados TODAY)

“Today, I take this oath with profound respect for the office, for the Constitution, and for the people whom The Barbados Police Service is sworn to protect.

“I am grateful for the confidence shown in me through this appointment, and I accept the responsibility with a clear understanding that public trust must be earned every day.”

Boyce paid tribute to her predecessor, Richard Boyce, saying the transition demonstrated that the Police Service was “larger than any one person” and was built on “discipline, sacrifice, courage and the daily commitment of officers and civilian staff”.

Newly sworn-in Commissioner of Police Sonia Boyce speaking to Acting President Jeffrey Douglas Gibson (Photo credit: Shamar Blunt / Barbados TODAY)

Acknowledging the significance of becoming the first woman to hold the post of Commissioner of Police, she said the milestone should inspire others while emphasising that her tenure would ultimately be judged on performance.

“I am also mindful that this appointment carries historic significance,” she said. “If this moment encourages more women and young people to see public service, policing and leadership as places where they belong, then it will have meaning beyond this ceremony. Still, the work ahead must be measured not by symbolism alone, but by integrity, competence, fairness and results.”

Outlining her priorities, Commissioner Boyce said she would focus on “safer communities, stronger investigations, greater visibility, improved communication, disciplined use of intelligence and technology, and deeper partnership with citizens, communities and regional and international law enforcement partners”.

Newly sworn-in Commissioner of Police Sonia Boyce sharing a light moment with Acting President Jeffrey Douglas Gibson and Prime Minister Mia Mottley (Photo credit: Shamar Blunt / Barbados TODAY)

She acknowledged public concern over crime trends, giving an assurance that the Police Service would respond decisively while remaining accountable.

“We will be firm where firmness is required, fair in how we exercise authority, and transparent wherever the law and the integrity of investigations permit.”

As she takes charge of the force, professionalism, accountability and respect would be the cornerstones of her leadership, she declared, as she promised greater attention to officers’ welfare, training, internal communication and morale.

She also appealed to the public to continue working with law enforcement by sharing information and engaging with police, stressing that “policing is most effective when trust moves in both directions”.

Boyce further committed to maintaining responsible communication with the media, saying her administration would provide accurate information and correct misinformation without compromising investigations, victims or witnesses.

“This is a moment for steady service, not self-congratulation; for action, not noise; and for partnership, not division. I look forward to working with the government, the leadership and ranks of The Barbados Police Service, our communities and all stakeholders in service of a safer, more confident Barbados.” (SB)