A “properly resourced police service” could lead to quicker crime investigations and an increased visible presence, says Police Commissioner
The Bermuda Police Service currently has 340 deployable officers, and their ranks will be boosted in May when 24 rookies complete training school.
A cohort of around a dozen is to follow suit as part of ongoing recruitment that will continue through next year, aimed at strengthening the force.
It has previously been reported that the target number for a fully staffed police service is 420 – but is that figure still accurate?
In the Throne Speech, the Government and the Governor committed to refreshing the 2014 Internal Security and Defence Review, which Commissioner of Police Darrin Simons says will offer an opportunity to reassess how many officers the island truly needs.
He explained: “A number of years ago, under a previous Minister, we agreed – due to financial pressures – that 420 officers would be the number required to properly police the island. That number doesn’t include things like two officers per parish for community policing, or a full-time presence in schools – those are just two examples off the top of my head.
“So, as we go through this Internal Security and Defence Review, these are the types of questions we need to ask and answer. What level of service do you want from the Bermuda Police Service, and what numbers will it take to deliver that?”
According to the Commissioner, having more officers would make a tangible difference in tackling crime.
He said: “Obviously, we would be able to investigate more crimes more quickly. Investigations are taking place now, but we have a smaller number of officers dedicated to each case.
“One of the key things the public continues to ask of me – or challenge me on – is providing a visible police presence. Unlike some communities, ours is saying, ‘We want to see more of you,’ and I absolutely want to provide that.
“Increased presence would be a key benefit of having more officers. Our ability to address quality-of-life issues would improve, and without a doubt, it would have an impact on the levels of violence we see in the community.”
The Commissioner added that increased staffing would also boost morale within the service.
“I suspect if you asked any police officer what needs to improve within the Bermuda Police Service, their number one answer would be staffing.
“How that plays out is, firstly, officers can’t always access leave, so they miss out on holidays or don’t get to take them as often, because we simply can’t absorb the absence.
“Secondly, officers want to move into different areas of the service, but we often can’t spare them from frontline duties. That’s another immediate benefit of having a properly resourced police service.”
