St Paul’s Town Hall Meeting appreciated by residents

ZIZ News…Nov 4, 2012 — On Thursday 25th October 2012, The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police, St. Paul’s Division, conducted a town hall meeting to assist in “Bridging the gap between Police and the Community.”

The head table at the meeting consisted of Commissioner of Police, C. G. Walwyn, Divisional Officer Inspector Mitchelle, and St. Paul’s Station Sergeant Wyatt. A number of concerned residents and business owners from St. Paul’s and other neighbouring communities came to air their views and problems faced in their community.

Commissioner C. G. Walwyn stated that the agency’s use of technology and training resulted in improved investigation methods. Preventative measures creating positive outcomes significantly reduces crime and increases the detection rates. The increase in strategic foot and mobile patrols in the community have assisted in the police securing the streets and making them safe for all citizens and residents alike. The Commissioner also told the group that in the spirit of transparency there is revitalization of the Complaints Department and that improvement in professionalism is assisting in rebuilding the trust of the community and in the provision of information to the police.

Inspector Mitchell pointed out that strategies and programmes executed in the Division has delivered better public service resulting in improved visibility and response to report. The Community Policing Meeting is used as a mechanism for collaboration and cooperation, and the building of trust in the Police Force.

Sergeant Wyatt provided an update on crime in which he indicated that there was a reduction in crime since there has been an increase in police activities such as day and night foot and increased mobile patrol. Residents expressed their appreciation in see the police foot and mobile patrols both day and night. Sgt. Wyatt stated that both community involvement and interaction played a major role in the reduction of crime. Commissioner Walwyn thanked the community for their candid comments and encouraged them to report all criminal acts to the police.