Significant reductions in some areas of crime – Acting Commissioner Rodney Adams
Acting Commissioner of Police Rodney Adams said there were “significant reductions” in some areas of crime in 2023 compared to 2022, as a result of the Royal Turks and Caicos
Adams said that in 2023, homicides decreased by 30 percent robberies were down by 47 percent and discharge of firearm dropped by 55 percent.
“Moreover, while last year, the detection rate for homicide stood at six percent, this year our detection rate is 39 percent; an increase of 33 percent,” Adams said during a press conference at police headquarters on Airport Road, Providenciales, on December 22nd, 2023.
The acting commissioner offered condolences to the families and friends of those who lost loved ones during the period of these “senseless killings”.
He added: “May the Almighty God continue to strengthen you during your grief and pain. One life lost to these senseless killings is one too much. We are committed to leaving no stone unturned in our efforts to bring these perpetrators to justice. Families, that is our solemn promise to you. However, I must appeal to everyone: Do not let it reach your doorstep for you to care for it.”
“There are many of you out there who can bring closure and comfort to these hurting families, and we encourage you to be your brother’s keeper. If you know something, say something. Crime Stoppers remains available and is only interested in the tip, not who you are. We will continue to strengthen our efforts as it relates to Crime Stoppers. We know many of you are fearful and even feel that what you may know or have seen is insignificant, but I appeal to you to share it and let the authorities determine its usefulness or not.”
Adams said members of the force are encouraged by the recent statistics and are committed to improving them even further.
He added that 27 illegal firearms have been recovered to date, with 16 within the last four months, adding that the Anti-Gang Ordinance of (2022) has played a vital and crucial role in addressing gang-related offences. To date, he said, five suspected gang members are before the courts charged with various offences under this ordinance.
“We have had significant seizures of drugs this year and will continue in our relentless efforts to tackle drug-related offences,” Adams said.
Noting that the entry of irregular migrants puts the TCI at the most significant risk, Adams said that in 2023 there were a record 33 interceptions.
“This remains a costly exercise, and we welcome tips that alert us before boats enter our space. Our Marine Branch and law enforcement partners – TCI Regiment, TCI Border Force, and our international partners have been doing a stellar job intercepting irregular migrants seeking to enter the TCI. Protecting the TCI border remains a high priority for the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force and its partners.”
In relation to road safety, Adams said the police force remains resolute in enforcing the law that helps to keep the public safe and makes it more difficult for criminals to move about the roadway undetected.
“However, there appears to be a concerted effort by lawbreakers to continue having illegal tints, no license plates, no vehicle insurance, and no driver’s license. The law is clear, yet some drivers are not adhering to it. We will continue our zero-tolerance approach in the coming days. Again, I call on drivers to be more responsible and help us keep you, your friends, and your families safe as they traverse our roadways,” he said, adding that in 2023 there were five road fatalities.
“I am again appealing to drivers to be responsible on the roads. (Refrain from excessive and reckless speed. Do not use your phones while driving to the point of distraction). Do not drink and drive. Please appoint a designated driver or contact a taxi service if you drink. Wear your seatbelts. Remember, loved ones await at home.”
Adams said the focus of the police force will be on continuous improvement, adaptability, and a steadfast dedication to the principles of justice and service.
“We will continue our zero tolerance approach on lawbreakers. As we approach the coming year, the RT&CIPF will carry forward the lessons learned and the triumphs achieved. The challenges we face are opportunities for growth and evolution, and I have complete confidence in the collective strength of our force.
I extend my deepest gratitude to our law enforcement partners, the TCI Regiment, TCI Border Force, all volunteers, private security companies, our international partners, and other partners within the TCI public service,” he added.
“I thank you, members of the public, for your continued trust and confidence in us. Thank you for working alongside and supporting us. The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force are the guardians of safety and the architects of positive change. While 2024 may be filled with challenges, we also look forward to opportunities that will present themselves. We will achieve our goals for a safer Turks and Caicos Islands through solid partnerships, planning, and sound policies and procedures embracing a multi-agency approach.”
He said the men and women of the RTCIPF stand committed and will continue to serve the TCI with pride and integrity.
“As we welcome new leadership in the coming weeks, let us commit to being true partners in our residents’ safety and peace. We each have a critical role to play, and may we ever remember that the challenges are shared. They are ours, and we must do more to hand down a better country for the generations to come. This is bigger than all of us,” he said.
