By Kisean Joseph
As Commissioner of Police Atlee Rodney delivered his Christmas message to over 360 fire and police officers of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda (RPFAB), he shared his journey from a schoolteacher in Dominica to becoming the nation’s top law enforcement officer, while outlining his vision for the force’s future.
“Who would ever imagine a teenager from a remote village would take such a risk of giving up on a first job as a school teacher and journey to a place I did not know, a place I had no relatives, no friends,” Rodney as he reflected on his 42-year career in law enforcement. “That is the magnitude of risk.”
The Commissioner’s address emphasized the transformative nature of becoming a police officer, drawing parallels to Biblical teachings. “When I was a child, I [spake] as a child but when I became a man, I put away childish things,” he quoted from First Corinthians.
Looking back on 2024, he praised the manner in which his officers handled major events, particularly the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Conference. “It drew energy from us that we didn’t know that we had,” he said, adding that the United Nations’ commended them for their performance.
According to the top cop, the force saw significant technological advancement under his leadership, including the introduction of drones and surveillance equipment.
Infrastructure improvements were also highlighted, with the completion of the Bolans Police Station and the refurbishment of All Saints Police Station.
Despite these achievements, Rodney acknowledged the challenges faced by the force, including public criticism. “There are times in 2024 we were unjustly criticized,” he noted, “but I ask you, even in the criticism, still stand strong, still remain focussed, and continue to always act as police officers.”
Looking ahead to 2025, Rodney outlined several priorities, including succession and officers’ well-being. “I am a strong believer in succession [planning] and I see it is my responsibility to prepare the next generation to provide leadership to this organisation,” he said.
The Commissioner also said that he is committed to mental health advocacy. “I have seen the negative side of it and I will encourage you to take care of your mental health.”
Rodney called for continued partnership between law enforcement and the community, expressing gratitude to various stakeholders, including the Christian community, government agencies, and the public. “Policing is never complete without the participation of the public,” he said.
The Commissioner concluded with a personal pledge to his officers: “As your humble leader, I pledge my commitment to you to remain focussed on the task, to provide you with a high level of leadership, and to do it with dedication, integrity, loyalty, and innovation,” he said.
