Finally! New Police Commissioner sworn in
The new Commissioner of Police Michael 'Mick' Matthews was sworn into office this morning, April 20, 2016 by Senior Magistrate Tamia N. Richards.
Mr Matthews, a UK national, takes over the reins of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) at a time when it has been rocked with allegations of corruption and increasing armed robberies in the territory.
Earlier this month, the RVIPF announced that three of its officers were charged for alleged corruption. They have since been remanded to prison.
Only on April 18, 2016 popular shopping establishment, One Mart Superstore in Port Purcell was robbed by armed bandits.
Police corruption and armed robberies are already two major issues that stand out for Mr Matthews to address as Commissioner. Another troubling issue on the plate for the new CoP is alleged racism in the force.
In August 2015 Virgin Islands News Online had first and accurately reported that Mr Robin Smith of the United Kingdom had been given the job of Police Commissioner, however, Mr Smith suddenly withdrew in October before taking up the post.
Roles & accomplishments
According to a press release from the RVIPF, the former Chief Constable for the Sovereign Base Areas Police in Cyprus and 34-year veteran law enforcer successfully climbed the ranks of the Gloucestershire Constabulary in the UK and is now on contract with the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force for the next three years.
“In his role as Commissioner, Mr Matthews will be the overall strategic commander of the Force ensuring that the Force is in compliance with legal requirements as well as standard policing practices, policies and procedures overseas. He will also provide operational policing leadership and mentorship to divisional heads.
His other functions include overseeing key crime fighting strategies within the RVIPF and developing and implementing sustainable programmes for the long-term capacity and capability of the RVIPF.”
Among his accomplishments, Mr Matthews drafted and delivered on an overall strategic plan for reducing crime levels while maintaining detection rates that were above 50%. At the same time, he was able to establish a comprehensive recruitment plan for officers and maintain a high level of trust and confidence from members of the local community in Cyprus, the press release stated.
In announcing the appointment, His Excellency John S. Duncan OBE stated then that he was confident that Mr Matthews would bring leadership and experience to his new role so that the RVIPF and the security of the VI would continue to be strengthened.
Mr. Matthews is joined in the VI by his wife Zoe.
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26 Responses to “Finally! New Police Commissioner sworn in”
So time me who so stupid to put their life and family at risk?Even the police them selves don't trust their own.
show the bvi what you can do and why you are the new COP