Corporal Black bids farewell to Serious Offences Court

Corporal 372 Gideon Black came in for high praises on Monday morning at the Serious Offences Court, his last day on the job there.

After more than 10 years attached to the Court, he has been assigned to the Canouan police station, where he took up duties on Tuesday.{{more}}

During Monday’s proceedings at the Serious Offences Court, Black, who has spent close to 24 years in the local constabulary, read out the facts in a matter, his last bit of action at the court.

Speaking to SEARCHLIGHT, Black expressed gratitude to the court staff and his co-workers for their support over the years.

“I have no regrets. I have been attached to the Process Unit, which deals with the court and I have learned quite a lot in the time that I have served here,” he said.

When asked how he felt about his transfer, Black said he sees no problem with it.

“I see nothing wrong. You expect transfers at anytime. That is the nature of the police force.

“The staff at the court were always cooperative and we all worked well together. I have no regrets in my time here. Anywhere I go, I will do my best,” he stated.

Throughout his years, Black has worked at several outstations.

Senior Prosecutor at the Court Adolphus Delpesche described Black as a “soldier” who works very hard.

“I wish him all the best. I know in his time here, when new police officers came to the court, Black would show them the ropes. He is a good man and will do well anywhere he goes,” Delpesche said.

In her comments, Chief Magistrate Rechanne Browne-Matthias said Black was one of the the persons who made sure the court ran smoothly.

“I know you would have tried your best in the circumstances. You always displayed professionalism and you guided other police officers on how the court is to operate.

“I wish you God’s speed and that you will have his favour. I hope that you will be in an environment of cooperation,” Browne-Matthias said.

Black’s successor, Corporal 670 Kenrick Williams, admitted that he has big shoes to fill, but declared that he is ready for the task ahead.

“I embrace the challenge. I am never afraid. I look at is an opportunity to sharpen my skills. I spent 10 years as an investigator and one and a half year doing station management.

“I feel this will make me a more rounded and efficient police officer,” Williams said.

Attorney Grant Connell also shared brief remarks.(KW)