- RSVGPF Eastern Division’s Annual Award Ceremony and Dinner – “Honoring the Present Shaping the Future.”
On March 23, 2024, the Eastern Division of the Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) held its annual Awards and Thanksgiving Dinner, under the theme – “Honoring the Present Shaping the Future”, spotlighting the dedication and exemplary performance of its officers over the past year. Led by Superintendent of Police Hesran Ballantyne, the Officer in Charge of the Eastern Division, the event underscored the collective efforts and achievements in maintaining law and order, as well as the division’s commitment to community engagement and safety. Superintendent Ballantyne’s remarks highlighted the division’s successes in crime solving, particularly noting the resolution of all murder cases in the district for the year 2023, showcasing the division’s operational effectiveness and dedication to justice.
The ceremony served not only as a platform for recognizing individual and team excellence but also reinforced the importance of collaboration between the police force and the community. Superintendent Ballantyne emphasized the division’s initiatives, such as the Police Youth Clubs (PYC) and the launch of the first branch of the Sexual Offences Unit within the division, as key elements in the strategy to prevent crime and protect vulnerable populations. Through these remarks, the event clearly communicated the RSVGPF’s Eastern Division’s ongoing mission to enhance public safety, foster community trust, and encourage the involvement of citizens in crime prevention efforts. The awards dinner, while celebratory, was a reminder of the continuous challenges faced by law enforcement and the unwavering resolve to meet these challenges head-on.
Continuing from the recognition of operational successes and community initiatives, Superintendent Ballantyne took a moment to acknowledge the challenges that remain. He pointed out the necessity for the decentralization of specialized units within the division, such as the Traffic Department, Forensic Unit, and Rapid Response Unit, to enhance the capability for a swift response to criminal activities. This strategic move, he noted, would not only improve the effectiveness of crime fighting but also strengthen border security to prevent unauthorized entry and curb the trafficking of illegal substances and persons.
Furthermore, Superintendent Ballantyne reiterated the significance of the firearm and gun amnesty act, urging the community to participate actively by surrendering unlicensed firearms and ammunition. This appeal is part of a broader effort to reduce gun-related crimes and ensure a safer environment for all citizens. The evening also served as a platform to express concerns about issues such as praedial larceny, burglary, and public safety, particularly highlighting the dangers of children cycling without proper safety gear. Through addressing these concerns, the Superintendent underscored the RSVGPF’s holistic approach to law enforcement, which not only focuses on crime solving but also on prevention, education, and community welfare. The Awards and Thanksgiving Dinner, while celebratory, firmly conveyed the division’s dedication to public service and its commitment to facing and overcoming the challenges ahead with resilience and integrity.
As the event neared its conclusion, Superintendent Ballantyne shifted focus to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the officers and personnel within the Eastern Division. He highlighted the array of awards given out during the evening, which celebrated achievements across various categories including outstanding performance in community policing, bravery, and service dedication. These awards, he noted, were a testament to the individual and collective commitment to excellence that defines the Eastern Division. Special mention was made of the officers who went above and beyond in their duties, solving critical cases, engaging with the community through the Police Youth Clubs, and contributing to the division’s overall mission.
In closing, after being given a surprise award recognizing him for his leadership and commemorating his 30 years of service to the constabulary, Superintendent Ballantyne extended his gratitude to the families of the officers for their support, understanding, and sacrifices, which enabled the members of the RSVGPF to perform their duties effectively. He also thanked the community for its cooperation and ongoing support, emphasizing that the successes achieved by the division were a result of collaborative efforts. The evening concluded on a note of optimism and encouragement, with Superintendent Ballantyne urging all present to continue their hard work, maintain high standards, and strive for excellence in all endeavors. The Awards and Thanksgiving Dinner not only celebrated the past year’s achievements but also set the tone for the year ahead, reinforcing the Eastern Division’s commitment to security, community engagement, and excellence in policing.
Awards and Awardees
The Eastern Division’s Awards and Thanksgiving Dinner recognized outstanding service and dedication across several categories. The awardees, celebrated for their exemplary contributions to the division and community, are as follows:
- Most Outstanding Fire Personnel at Georgetown Police Station: Jessie Dasouza, PC 143
- Most Outstanding Police Officer at S.O.U: Cliseena Butler, WPC 244
- Officer who Effected the Most Arrests in 2023: Joran Samuel, PC 1014
- Most Outstanding Traffic Personnel in the Eastern Division: Joran Samuel, PC 1014
- Most Outstanding Transport Driver in the Eastern Division: Joel Young, PC 826
- Best at Conducting Investigations in the Eastern Division: Chevron Laborde, Cpl 339
- Most Outstanding Police Officer at Georgetown Police Station: Joran Samuel, PC 1014
- Most Outstanding Police Officer at Sandy Bay Police Station: Azadan Stapleton, PC 1083
- Most Outstanding Police Officer at Owia Police Station: Omari Browne, PC 194
- Most Outstanding Police Officer at Colonaire Police Station: Verbert King, PC 973
- Most Outstanding Police Officer in the Eastern Division: Joran Samuel, PC 1014
- Most Disciplined Police Officer in the Eastern Division: Jerron May, PC 404
- Most Improved Police Officer in the Eastern Division: Erran Arringdell, PC 425
- Award for Bravery: Danson Andrews, PC 179
- Award for Exemplary Service to the Police: Justice of the Peace James Browne
- Most Outstanding Traffic Warden in the Eastern Division: Carol Innis
- In Recognition of Exceptional Work in 2023: Kenrick Williams, Sgt 670; Erran Arrindell, PC 425
- Most Improved Police Officer at Georgetown Police Station: Erran Arrindell, PC 425
- In Recognition of Punctuality & Devotion to Duty in 2023: Shemron Roberts, PC 763
- Award of Appreciation for Invaluable Dedication & Contribution to the Eastern Division: Altricia Phillips
- Award for Dedication to Duty: Donette Hackshaw, PC 617; Amaikwu Fergus, PC 977
- Award for Thirty Years of Service: Superintendent of Police, Hesran Ballantyne
These awards underscore the diverse areas of excellence within the Eastern Division, highlighting the dedication and hard work of individuals who have gone above and beyond in their commitment to duty, community engagement, and the overall mission of the RSVGPF.
