Monroe College-School of Criminal Justice has partnered with the Royal Police Force of Police of Antigua and Barbuda in what is considered a historic venture, and is offering training to a number of police officers. Twenty police officers of middle management rank, both from the Regular and Fire Department are currently on training at the Sir Wright F. George Police Academy.
The program, “Innovation in Law Enforcement Practices- Enhanced Professional Development and Training,” is expected to be an intense one week training course. The officers will receive training in subject areas such as; Effective Law Enforcement Leadership, Crisis Management and De-Escalating Techniques, Standards in Use of Force and Resilience Training for Mental Wellness, among other areas.
During a brief opening ceremony at the academy on Monday 6th January 2020, Acting Commissioner of Police Atlee Rodney used the opportunity to thank Monroe College for partnering with the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda and offering this level of training to his officers. He also thanked the Government of Antigua and Barbuda for making it possible and for having the vision to see the importance of these types of training for the police. Rodney encouraged the participants to seized the opportunity and develop stronger leadership qualities, as well as to be an agent of change within the organization.
Deputy Commissioner of Police Everton Jeffers, who has responsibilities for administration and training, also told the participants to grasp the opportunity with both hands and make good use of it. Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs of Monroe College, Dr. Karenann Carty was among those who spoke and said she is pleased to be partnering with the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda. She further stated that most of the educational programs offered by Monroe are geared towards community and family development. In November of 2019, Acting Commissioner Rodney travelled to the United States to meet and establish partnership ties with Monroe College.
