Thursday, March 28, 2024

Luis Castellanos takes the helm at the San Pedro Police Department

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The San Pedro Police Department has a new Officer in Charge (OC). The new OC responsible for the Coastal Executive Unit is Assistant Superintendent of Police Luis Castellanos. OC Castellanos was formerly Head of the Prosecution Branch. He comes to San Pedro offering 28 years of experience. His immediate transfer was made in order to fill the position of former OC Vienie Robinson. Castellanos officially took over office on Monday, January 14th.

San-Pedro-Officer-in-Command-Luis-Castellanos

Originally from the Orange Walk District, Castellanos received his primary education at Chapel’s Primary School. Following this, Castellanos went on to attend King’s College where he obtained his high school diploma. Castellanos then joined the Belize Police Formation, during which time he obtained his Bachelor’s Degree in Administration at San Luis Potosi, Mexico. Castellanos has served in both the Orange Walk and Cayo District; serving as part of the Prosecutions Branch, Traffic Branch and Professional Standards Branch. This is his first assignment to San Pedro.

Castellanos told The San Pedro Sun that he strongly believes in community support and feels that without the support of the people, very little can be done. Professionalism is one of the main goals Castellanos hopes to achieve with his officer0s. Having the most experience working in the Prosecution Department, Castellanos is a man who believes in the “formality of justice”, handling matters immediately and effectively. His principles run along the basis of transparency and professionalism.

When asked about his thoughts on the recent negative allegations against police, Castellanos responded, “We need to foster a good relationship with the community… without the community we will definitely not survive.” Castellanos has taken charge of a Police Department that has been accused of numerous improprieties by locals and tourist alike. Castellanos hopes that a few changes within the department, especially in the area of courtesy and professionalism, plus renewed efforts from the entire police force – including Castellanos himself – the San Pedro Police Department will once again claim the trust of the people.

The San Pedro Sun joins Castellanos in imploring the good people of La Isla Bonita to work hand in hand with our new OC. Strong community support can go a long way in repairing the relationships between our officers and our civilians. We join the residents in welcoming OC Castellanos to a most successful term in office on our island.

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