St. Kitts-Nevis Police to enhance service to victims

Basseterre, St. Kitts (SKNIS) — Family members and friends who may lose a loved one as a result of a criminal act, suicide or violent accident stand to benefit from a new unit to be established within the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF).

Officials from the agency recently visited its sister organization, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) in Orlando, Florida to learn more about the Victim Advocate Unit and its important role in helping individuals cope with the unnatural and sudden passing of loved ones. Advocates also assist families in understanding the investigative and judicial processes which at times can seem confusing and slow.

St. Kitts and Nevis’ Commissioner of Police Celvin G. Walwyn, who served in OCSO from 2003 to 2011, is reportedly committed to creating a similar unit in order to strengthen relations with the community and enhance the services the police provide to residents and visitors.

Consultant Antoinette Walwyn, who holds a Master’s Degree in Security Management, has been designated to conduct a training of trainers workshop for the RSCNPF staff.