James Sutton is St Kitts and Nevis’ new Commissioner of Police

JAMES WHITINTON SUTTON IS THE NEW COMMISSION OF POLICE of St Kitts and Nevis.

CoP Sutton was officially installed last Thursday at a ceremony Prime Minister and National Security Minister Dr. Terrance Drew described as a “significant occasion”.

“As a police officer, he remains loyal to his duty to serve and protect the public and he continues to do so with dignity and integrity throughout his career – and so today, on behalf of the entire country, it is our turn to express our appreciation to you, Commissioner Sutton and to congratulate you on your elevation to the leadership position of the Royal St Christopher and Nevis Police Force,” Dr. Drew said.
He said Sutton has proven to be uncompromising against crime and this has helped him remain successful throughout his impressive career.
Behind this backdrop, “you come to this new and major position with immense experience and expertise,” PM Drew emphasised.

He continued, “You climbed the ranks of the police force, exhibiting your knowledge of policing which includes crime detection, crime prevention, and strategic planning.

“You continue to demonstrate the true meaning of public service,” the PM told Sutton, eulogising him.
Contemporary policing is under increasing stress and constant reform has therefore become a priority for his six-month-old administration, national security minister Drew disclosed.

“It is about making policing more beneficial to both the public at large, and the men and women of the Force who are tasked to work collaboratively in making our communities safe”.
The incumbent St Kitts and Nevis Labour Party (SKNLP) administration’s decision to increase the budget for the National Security Ministry in the 2023 fiscal estimates was informed by the need to enhance the implementation of strategic plans and policies to reduce criminal activities in the twin-island Federation.
“Our efforts to expand community policing have proven fruitful as was demonstrated only a few weeks ago. I would like to applaud the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force once again for the rapid responses that resulted in the apprehension of suspects within minutes after the tragic incident. The swift action is testimony to the Government’s thrust to increase safety and security throughout our nation and reduce the fear of crime he reminded his audience.

The administration and its agencies must constantly demonstrate to its citizens and residents that their well-being, freedom, and security are essential and “our first order of business.”
“We are aware of the numerous challenges confronting our officers while on duty. As a Government, we are committed to providing the necessary resources and training opportunities to build the capacity of the officers for more effective delivery of service to the people of our beloved country. We must work together to fill the gaps that have been created over the years, in our efforts to develop a model police force that can respond to all situations,” he reiterated. 
The Prime Minister emphasised that moral and personal integrity are the necessary pillars needed within the Police Force.
“I look forward to collaborating with you in your new role as Commissioner of Police. I am confident that you will do what is necessary to ensure that our officers receive the required training to target and reduce recidivism, forge stronger community relationships, reduce criminal activity, and help establish safe havens for our youth,” the PM said.

He used the CoP installation ceremony as the perfect opportunity to condemn all acts of violent crimes in the CARICOM Federation. Drew commended the officers for their quick response, and the community for collaborating with them, to secure the arrest of perpetrators of recent criminal acts.

“I appeal to young men and women to move forward from a lifestyle of crime that has brought much grief and loss to their families. You have been provided the opportunity to reform! Make good use of it,” he declared.
Addressing CoP Sutton directly, PM Drew admitted awareness that, while his task is great, with adequate support from his colleagues, the seemingly-impossible will be accomplished.

“Commissioner Elect, your task is great but with the support of your colleagues and the people of the Federation, you will create the enabling environment to create peace and security in our land. I wish you every success along this new journey,” National Security Minister, Dr Drew said.