Closing Ceremony of the Public Affairs Reporting Exchange for Law Enforcement Officers

August 26, 2024 – Kingstown: In an era where Strategic Communications, Public Trust, and Transparency are more vital than ever, the Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) has taken a significant step forward. Friday, August 23, 2024, marked the conclusion of the Public Affairs Reporting Exchange for Law Enforcement Officers, a week-long program designed to arm our officers with the essential tools and knowledge necessary to weather the complexities of modern public engagement. Held at the Argyle Fire Station Lecture Room, the closing ceremony celebrated the achievements of nineteen (19) officers who are now better equipped to manage the critical interface between law enforcement and the public.
Opening remarks were delivered by Superintendent of Police (SOP) Mr. Junior Simmons, who underscored the importance of this training in enhancing the force’s capacity for effective public relations. He noted that these newly trained officers add a vital layer of competence to the RSVGPF, particularly at a time when the Public Relations and Complaints Department needs reinforcement. SOP Simmons also highlighted the success of the training, commending both the facilitators and the participants for their commitment to professional growth. He urged the officers to apply their new skills in ways that will build stronger, more trusting relationships with the communities they serve.
SOP Simmons used the opportunity to call for the separation of public relations from complaints. He said, “As I conclude my brief remarks, I want to reiterate my call for Public Relations to be separated from Complaints. This call is not new. It has been echoed by all of my predecessors including – Retired Superintendent, Mr. Artis Davis, Former Assistant Superintendent, Mr. Johnathan Nicholls of blessed memory, and Former Assistant Superintendent, Mr. Hawkins Nanton.  On the one hand, you cannot be doing public relations – seeking to improve the image of the police force and the relationship with the public, and dealing with complaints and other issues that can tarnish that same image and relationship on the other hand. This construct is an oxymoron and needs to be addressed immediately. I do hope that this training catapults this urgent separation of both offices.”
Commander Deon Henry, Commanding Officer of the SVG Coast Guard Service, addressed the audience on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Enville Williams. Commander Henry conveyed the Commissioner’s congratulations to the participants and expressed appreciation for the ongoing partnership with the Virgin Islands and Florida National Guards, made possible through the State Partnership Programme. He emphasized the strategic benefits of this collaboration, noting that it has significantly bolstered the RSVGPF’s capacity to engage with the public transparently and effectively. He encouraged the officers to utilize their new skills to enhance the credibility of the force and to serve the community with integrity and professionalism.
Captain Rasheed Escobar of the US Virgin Islands National Guard, one of the exchange’s key facilitators, delivered remarks focused on the strategic importance of public affairs in law enforcement. He highlighted the comprehensive nature of the training, which covered essential areas such as crisis communication, media relations, and the ethical challenges inherent in public reporting. Captain Escobar emphasized that the effectiveness of law enforcement is closely tied to its ability to communicate clearly and honestly with the public, maintaining the trust that is foundational to any successful police force. He concluded by encouraging the officers to continue honing their public affairs skills as a means of strengthening their department’s relationship with the community.
The Public Affairs Reporting Exchange provided participants with a rigorous and immersive experience, covering a wide range of topics including social media management, public speaking, and scenario-based training. Through hands-on exercises, the officers were able to practice real-life media interactions, gaining confidence in their ability to handle various communication challenges. This training has positioned them to play a pivotal role in shaping the public’s perception of the RSVGPF, ensuring that the force’s commitment to transparency and accountability is reflected in every interaction.
As the ceremony drew to a close, the speakers collectively urged the officers to carry forward the principles of strategic communication, professionalism, and ethical conduct that were at the heart of this training. The RSVGPF remains steadfast in its dedication to fostering trust and transparency within the community, and the successful completion of this exchange represents a significant milestone in that ongoing effort.
The other facilitators were Sergeant (First Class) Benny Watson and Sgt. Symone Simon from the Florida and Virgins Island National Guards respectively.