Commissioner of Police Verne Garde has reaffirmed the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force’s commitment to serving the public, insisting that the relationship between law enforcement and citizens should be based on cooperation rather than confrontation.
Speaking at this month’s police press conference, Garde stressed that effective policing depends on public consent and strong relationships between officers and the communities they serve.
“Police is the public and the public is the police,” he said, explaining that the Constitution of Saint Lucia establishes a system in which the police operate with the consent of the people.
Reiterating a position he had previously expressed, Garde declared: “We are not at war with our citizens.”
He said that under his command, the force would not be at war with members of the public, adding that its responsibility was to provide professional service.
The commissioner also referred to the island’s homicide figures, noting that 52 cases had been recorded this year, 10 fewer than during the corresponding period last year.
He said no police officer had been implicated in any of the homicides recorded in 2026 and maintained that the force would continue working to serve the public professionally.
Garde also underscored the importance of justice, stating that “Every single person wants an environment of justice” and affirming the force’s commitment to helping create such an environment.
Meanwhile, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force is preparing to expand its canine unit from three dogs to five through additional training and recruitment.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Albert Charlery outlined the plans, explaining that an officer currently undergoing training overseas is expected to return with an additional canine, bringing the unit’s complement to three.
The training is also expected to strengthen the force’s local capacity in canine handling and training, enabling the officer to pass on those skills to other members.
Charlery said two additional officers were in Guyana undergoing similar training. They are expected to return with their respective canines and be appointed as police officers upon their arrival in Saint Lucia.
The two officers and their dogs are expected to bring the canine unit’s strength to five.
“There’s quite a bit that is happening in the area of training,” Charlery said.
