What has gone wrong with some police officers?

EDITOR: The Royal St Vincent and the Grenadines Police service have come under much scrutiny and criticism of late, due to series of allegations. This can not serve well for such an organization which is there to protect and serve.

We must all agree that there are many hardworking, dedicated and reputable officers, while on the other hand there are those who are bringing this noble organization into much disrepute.

Suffice it to say, these are only allegations and some may not be true, for we know that every story has three sides.

Nevertheless, it is reasonable to have an inward look at this organization.

These various allegations give rise to a lack of confidence and respect in and for the force by the general public. It gives a bad image of such a noble profession. What has gone wrong with some of these officers is a question worth researching. Is it that many enter without proper scrutiny? Is it that some enter due to political influence? Or is it that despite these many scrutiny and qualifications the force has corrupt[ed] them? These questions are worth thinking about.

Whatever answers we choose to give, the fact is that the RSVG Police has lost it credibility. We recognise they are human and as such prone to failures like anyone else.

However, in such noble profession, it is important that standards be maintained. Added to that, they are supposed to be above reproach and role models.

The latter is debatable as to whether they are or not. All is not lost. They must continue to serve and protect with distinction.

Efforts must always be made to perform their duties professionally and with a fair sense of self control and knowledge in some cases. The bad ones must be dealt with and be made a public example, and by doing so, the RSVG Police can gain the confidence of the general public. Sometimes officers are not confidential enough and so many for fear of their lives, refuse to give information.

All levels of corruption and bad boy mentality that do exist within the organization must be dealt with. We know officers are human and are not perfect. We are not looking for perfection, but credible service and good discipline.

Kennard King