Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Sejilla McDowall has lauded the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) for their level of professionalism and expertise.
The DPP gave kudos to the lawmen while delivering remarks at the closing ceremony of the High Court Criminal Assizes, July 22, 2022.
“The Police Force is not what it was, it has been enhanced. They (Police) are experts, and many times they are not paid for their expertise but they must be recognized,” the DPP said.
She noted that there are not only several trained lawyers in the RSVGPF, but also trained professionals in other areas of crime fighting, as well as those directly involved in providing that level of security to keep the country safe.
Female officers are just as competent as their male counterparts, the DPP stressed.
McDowall also lauded the team of police officers from the Criminal Records Office (CRO) who work diligently to ensure that witnesses come to Court.
The DPP pointed out that these officers would go into the communities, even without vehicle, and find the witnesses wherever they are. She looks forward to the day when they would be provided with a vehicle to do the work.
The DPP recognized the void left by and highlighted the outstanding role of recently retired Sergeant Rudolf Bartholomew, who headed that team for several years.
The CRO officers, all decked in blue, were asked to stand, and the DPP pointed in their direction, and said, “This is the level of professionalism I am talking about”.
Justice Brian Cottle also lauded the CRO High Court team for their role, particularly in ensuring that witnesses are present.
“Without the witnesses there can be no justice,” Justice Cottle reminded the sitting.