Commissioner of Police Everton Jeffers has told 43 newly graduated police officers that their careers must be defined by service to the public, warning that there will be no tolerance for unprofessionalism while outlining the character and values he expects every officer to uphold.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony for the 50th Recruit Training Course at the Sir Wright F. George Police Academy, Jeffers reminded the recruits that they were not simply entering a profession but accepting a responsibility to serve the people of Antigua and Barbuda.

“As your Commander in Chief, it is important that I let you know that policing is not only an eight-hour job. It is not for clock watchers or those who simply look forward to a paycheck,” he said. “Today, you’re not just simply receiving a certificate of completion. You are accepting a sacred trust.”

The academy graduated 43 recruits after they successfully completed the six-month training programme, achieving an overall pass rate of 95.6 percent.

Jeffers said the authority entrusted to police officers is not a privilege but a responsibility that must always be exercised in the public’s interest.

“From this day forward, you are the guardians of the law, protectors of the vulnerable and ambassadors of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda,” he said. “The authority you now carry is not a privilege for you to abuse, but a responsibility to exercise with fairness, humility, compassion and unwavering integrity.”

He stressed that providing quality service to the public should be the foundation of every officer’s work.

“There are no shortcuts to providing top quality service to the public. Each complaint must be properly investigated with the highest level of professionalism, courtesy and respect for the rights and dignity of everyone,” the commissioner said.

Jeffers went on to define what he believes makes an effective police officer, saying technical skills alone are not enough.

“As I’ve often said, the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda needs men and women who have what it takes to be good police officers,” he said. “We need men and women who are dependable, courteous, polite and sensitive to the needs of others.”

He said officers must also remain calm and professional when faced with difficult situations.

“Men and women who, even in the face of adversity, can keep their composure and remain professionals as ambassadors. Your general attitude must reflect the quality of training you received at the Academy,” Jeffers said.

The commissioner cautioned the graduates that the force would not accept conduct that undermines public confidence.

“There is no tolerance for unprofessionalism, tardiness and unproductivity within this organisation,” he said. “As a young officer, your honesty and integrity will be tested. However, I urge you to do the right thing at all times, even when no one is watching.”

Jeffers also appealed to senior members of the organisation to guide the newest officers as they begin their careers.

“To my senior officers, I will be calling upon you to be positive examples and role models for these young officers to emulate,” he said. “They need your support and guidance in order to be successful in their careers. You are responsible to provide leadership and to ensure that they do not get lost along the way.”

He concluded by reminding the graduates that the badge they now wear represents more than legal authority.

“Your badge represents far more than authority. It represents sacrifice, honour, courage and service. Wear it with humility. Protect it with integrity. Live worthy of it every single day.”

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: Commissioner Jeffers Tells New Police Officers Public Service Must Be at Heart of Policing.