There will be more boots on the ground conducting patrols along with the police after 27 islanders were sworn-in as Special Constables. The swearing in took place after the completion of two days of training on Saturday May 12th and Sunday May 13th upstairs of Fido’s Restaurant. The training of the Special Constables was conducted by Inspector Gerald Jones and Corporal Johnny Tun, both instructors at the Police Academy in Belmopan.
The Special Constables received training in areas such as The Constitution of Belize, Justifiable force and harm, Powers of Arrest, Beat and Patrol, Searching of Suspects, Methods of Arrest, Station Diary and Giving Evidence in Court. According to Officer Commanding the San Pedro Police Formation Assistant Superintendent of Police Vienie Robinson, the newly sworn Special Constables will conduct voluntary duties in foot patrols, diary entry, follow up from front desk inquiry made by members of the public, assist with special events, assist in natural disaster, boat and traffic patrol along with other minor duties. “It is very important for you to know and understand that all information that you are privy to while assisting the police is confidential,” cautioned ASP Robinson in addressing the Special Constables. She added that, “You are now sworn in to help in enforcing the laws and as such must conduct yourself differently. The Police Department will not tolerate any wrong doing from you and the minute you are found involved in wrong doings, we will release you from being a Special Constable.” ASP Robinson also cautioned the Special Constables and asked them to be extra vigilant of rogue officers and to distance themselves from dishonest activities.
At hand to issue the certificates of completion was Councilor Wally Nunez Jr. whose responsibility is to work with the Police Department on the island. In addressing the 27 Special Constables, Councilor Nunez encouraged them to “get more involved in the community and work along with the police for a better San Pedro.” He also congratulated them and asked them to “be the best” they can.
ASP Robinson explained to the Special Constables that while they have the “Power of Arrest,” it is limited only to Ambergris Caye. The group of Special Constables will be lead by Special Constables Brian Cook and Daniel Jones and will meet monthly. The group will be part of regular ongoing trainings in San Pedro. Special Constables who report to duty will work along with a Police Officer and will have a T-Shirt issued by the Police Department clearly indicating “Special Constable” along with the Police Emblem. All Special Constables will be required to work a minimum of four hours weekly to remain active. With the addition of 27 new Special Constables, it is expected that there will be more boots on the ground to conduct patrols resulting in less crime.
