Police officers’ new skills will shape the ‘very future of policing’- Acting CoP Vanterpool


Eighty-six officers received their certificates during the closing ceremony for the training was held today, Friday, September 5, 2025, at the New Life Baptist Church. Seventy-four completed the Community Policing Training, while twelve completed ALERT.
The Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training was conducted in conjunction with the Royal Anguilla Police Force and the Royal Montserrat Police Force.
“Congratulations, your dedication has brought you to this extra special day, but this is only the beginning of a greater journey,” she told the officers, adding, “Over these weeks, you have gained tools not just for enforcement but for transformation.”
Officers are now equipped with tools for conflict resolution, emotional intelligence, public engagement, advanced principles of community policing, community-oriented policing, and leadership.
“These skills will not only shape your careers but the very future of policing in these islands that we call home, the BVI,” Acting Commissioner Vanterpool stated.
We believe in you
She also called on the officers to lead by example and share what they learned with colleagues, build bridges and be present not only in the streets but in the lives of those they serve.
“Success should not only be measured by statistics alone, but by trust, confidence, cooperation and peace. You must strive to be proactive and responsive, ensuring crime reduction… We believe in your ability to carry this mantle forward, to lead this change and to elevate the forces to new heights. Let us move together, officers, communities, and partners, united in a shared vision of safety, trust and resilience,” Ms Vanterpool added.
Twenty-two officers who completed the Community Policing Training also underwent training to become Community Policing Trainers.


11 Responses to “Police officers’ new skills will shape the ‘very future of policing’- Acting CoP Vanterpool”
Secondly, it can be frustrating when you're expected to speak strictly within the confines of what’s written in your statement. There’s no padding or filler in those documents, so officers rely on their notebooks and other records to refresh their memory when discussing a case. These should be considered valid references, especially when questions arise or when there's confusion about something that wasn’t explicitly included in the original statement. Expecting someone to recall every detail from an event that occurred years ago is unrealistic. However, not impossible…but again, not practical.
Lastly, I agree that some officers don't think outside the box, but much is to be debated as to whether that's due to insufficient preparation or a lack of foresight and critical thinking skills. My advice: Think of it as something helpful, and even calming… Approach it like delivering a thoughtful monologue about how you carried out your role, followed by an interview to explore the details further.
-Season22