by Eulana Weekes
St. Kitts and Nevis (WINN): A ceremony was held at the Police Training School in Basseterre on Wednesday morning, July 19, 2023, for the commissioning of two vehicles, specifically for the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force Crime Scene Unit.
Commissioner of Police, Mr James Sutton, said the vehicles are a costly but timely addition to the Police Force, especially as the organisation seeks to advance forensic services in the Federation.
“With the purchasing of these vehicles, they have given the Crime Scene Unit the tools necessary to do their work; and this is critical in law enforcement. These vehicles were specifically made and equipped to meet the needs of the crime scene technicians as we seek to better maximise the use of technology when combating criminal activities. The availability and accessibility to proper transportation is a critical component to law enforcement’s success in crime fighting; getting to the crime scene in a timely manner and collecting the relevant things of evidential value is also critical in the de-escalation of criminal acts,” the Commissioner stated.
For many years, police officers have been accused of abusing and misusing the organisation’s vehicles. Commissioner Sutton advised the officers to exercise proper responsibility and ensure that the vehicles are used for their intended purpose.
“By commissioning these vehicles, it is hoped that they are driven with due care and attention; and I say with due care and attention [and that] they are properly maintained and serviced to maximise the use they are intended for.”.
The Commissioner added, “I want to implore and impress upon all operators, supervisors to play their roles to ensure that these vehicles are used for their intended purpose. Treat the vehicles as if [they] are your own.”
Commissioner Sutton also used the opportunity to express appreciation and gratitude to the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis for honouring their commitment to crime fighting in the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis by purchasing the two vehicles.
The Crime Scene Vehicles, two Ford Rangers pick-up trucks, G460 and G590 were commissioned and blessed by Force Chaplin Mr Ericson Cumberbatch.
