While noting that the Royal St Lucia Police Force [RSLPF] was keen on getting youth involved in combatting criminal activity on the island – Commissioner of Police Crusita Descartes- Polius stated that several critical programmes exist in that sphere.
She listed the Prince Trust project as one of these components, alongside other youth-based programmes targeting youth participation in crime fighting measures.
The commissioner stated that her office is committed to providing additional support to this venture “as …it is impossible to manage crime without youth involvement.”
Descartes-Polius said dialogue was held with several youth involved in arts and entertainment and the young people appeared determined “to participate in transformative activities and share a common interest in reducing crime in their communities.”
She said the project is forthcoming and should be rolling out shortly.
The commissioner added that other key partners, such as educational and social development groups in the communities will get involved “to make meaningful progress in realizing a cultural shift in crime fighting”.
Added COP Descartes- Polius: “Mindsets must be changed; the way to achieve this is to educate and provide alternative ways of survival to those in dire need of such assistance.”
In addition, she said, the welfare of law enforcement officers is imperative to running a fully functional police force.
Describing herself as “a strong proponent for holistic approaches to dealing with issues”, the commissioner explained, this year will witness the undertaking of health-related initiatives targeting officers.
Unfortunately, she recalled, last year the RSLPF lost six of its members through illness and tragedy, and some of these young persons were in service to the country.
“This cannot be a continuous cycle,” the commissioner declared. “Officers will be offered medical interventions as well and mental health support. If we are ailing in any way, we cannot adequately serve.”
Acknowledging the input and efforts of the executive members and other officers in the force “who worked tirelessly during the year”, Descartes- Polius stated: “I will endeavour to make available the relevant training to enable you to execute your duties with excellence, a high level of professionalism and to build trust with our stakeholders.”