Sgt. Toulon’s commitment helped overall decrease in crime- Premier [Photoslide Included]
Hundreds, from all walks of life here and abroad, squeezed into the Road Town Methodist Church to bid farewell to the officer who died in a vehicular accident on March 2, 2012 at Spooner’s Estate.
Among the many persons was Premier Dr. D. Orlando Smith who said the fond memories of Sergeant Toulon are etched in different ways in his mind. “He had a very serious devotion to law enforcement and to the security of these Virgin Islands. He believed firmly that police-community relations are important to deterring crime.”
The Premier added he remember the fallen officer as one who significantly contributed to the preservation of law, order and public safety, often times speaking to the youth about making a positive contribution in their respective communities. “Sergeant Toulon believed that if people understood the law they would remain good and productive citizens. This commitment to making communities safe and secure has indeed helped with the overall decrease of crime in these Virgin Islands.”
Hon. Smith further said he was able to benefit from Sergeant Toulon’s extended experience as a police when he served as Chief Minister. “At intervals he was my protection officer. He was always frank, yet professional with his comments. He was committed to what he was doing. He was always diligent and steadfast in his commitment to my protection."
Former Premier and now Opposition Leader Ralph T. O’Neal also had a similar tribute. He said he had the privilege of getting to know Mr. Toulan very well as he was assigned to be his driver when the substantive officer went on vacation or had other duties to perform. “I found him to very polite and courteous and he had a good knowledge of the roads around the Territory, even those that would give you a rough ride. He was a very cautious and careful driver and I felt very much as ease with him and his friendly disposition and courteous manner always made me feel comfortable and at ease.”
Hon. O’Neal also wrote that it was a terrible shock to hear the news that Sergeant Toulon was involved in an accident, which led to his death. “It is always sad to lose a loved one especially in the prime of his life and we are all saddened by his sudden loss.”
Governor Boyd McCleary, CMG, CVO said the occasion, though sad, offered the chance to remember and indeed celebrate Sergeant Toulon’s contributions to the RVIPF in particular and the VI in general. “It is clear from the reaction of his colleagues and the wider community that Sergeant Toulon was a dedicated and highly respected member of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force. I am honoured to join the many others in paying respectful tribute.”
Hon. Delores Christopher, who also sang in the church choir at the funeral service, wrote in her tribute that Sergeant Toulon is described by all who knew him as a humble and good natured man, who was loved, admired and respected. “He committed his life to serve these Virgin Islands as a Police Officer for over 22 years. We are all deeply saddened by his untimely passing, especially in the Huntum’s Ghut community where he lived and socialized during off-duty hours.”
Police Commissioner Reynell Frazer, who played the keyboard at the service, said although Sergeant Toulon’s personal aspirations were short lived, he inspired a number of officers-all of whom have expressed their gratitude for his sound and timely advice and encouragement given to them during his tenure. “His postings ranged from beat and patrol to all out-stations, special unit and his last posting at East End Police Station. He readily adjusted each working environment and served with a great measure of proficiency despite the many challenges he encountered from time to time. The rank and file feels a sense of loss in consideration of this noble profession to serve and protect our communities and to keep them safe.”
Tributes were also paid by the Police Service Commission, East End Police Station, Pusser’s and a number of ranks from the RVIPF.
During the Eulogy, which was read by Commissioner Frazer, it was noted that Sergeant Toulon, a native of Dominica, came to Tortola in 1984 and worked at Bobby’s Supermarket and Road Town Wholesale before entering the RVIPF in 1989. He was described as a various serious and no-nonsense officer when performing his duty and his devotion and commitment to duty earned him a promotion to the rank of Sergeant.
Other persons in attendance included Minister for Education and Culture Hon. Myron Walwyn, Minister for Health and Social Development Hon. Ronnie Skelton, At Large Representative Hon. Archibald Christian, 2nd District Representative Alvin Christopher and Assistant Police Commissioner David Morris.
Internment took place at the Sea Cows Bay Cemetery.
Mr. Toulon is survived by his wife Isabella Toulon, Son: Amal Toulon (St. Vincent), Stepsons: Craig Lloyd & Clarence Frank (Tortola), Brothers: Alexander, Staline, Gibson & Frenrick (Dominica), Sylvester “Preacher” & David “Dave” of the USA.
He is also survived by sisters; Euta Toulon (Dominica) & Clemie Toulon (Antigua).
Some of the late Police officer's close friends includes; Jefferson Knight, Mr. & Mrs. Kelvin Francis, Mr. & Mrs. Renard Ham, Commissioner of Police Reynell Frazer and all Ranks of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, Lorna Smith, the Guys at Kiddies Drop Inn, Duncan E. Williams, Management & Staff of Road Town Wholesale, Calvert Romney, Joseph Chapman, Bruce Huggins, Durville Carty, Wallace Todman, Ashley Ritter, Frankie Alphonso, Reid Toussaint, the Management & Staff of Big Bens Superette as well as other relatives and friends too numerous to mention.
Sergeant Toulon, who was an officer for 22 years in the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, died following a vehicular accident at around 4pm on March 2, 2012 at Spooner's Estate. The 49 year-old was pronounced dead just before 7pm. The accident is presently under investigation.
Commissioner of Police Reynell Frazer had immediately cancelled Police Week’s final events and had expressed his deep sadness at the tragic loss of the officer both to the Toulon family and to officers in a debriefing where he shared his thoughts on the death.
Sergeant Toulon was assigned to the East End Police Station at the time of his death.
Virgin Islands News Online joins in extending sincerest condolences to the family and friends of the late Sergeant Joseph E. Toulon.
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