Antigua and Barbuda’s newest police officers were reminded Thursday that the routine decisions they make each day—from responding to complaints to conducting traffic stops and criminal investigations—will shape public confidence in the Royal Police Force.

Attorney General Sir Steadroy Benjamin delivered the message during the graduation ceremony for the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda’s 50th Recruit Training Course, urging the new officers to approach every assignment with professionalism, fairness and integrity.

Benjamin said policing is not simply about enforcing the law but about serving the public with consistency and respect, noting that every interaction between an officer and a citizen has lasting consequences.

“There are no shortcuts to providing top-quality service to the public,” he said. “Each complaint must be properly investigated with the highest level of professionalism and respect for the rights and dignity of everyone.”

He warned the graduates that the authority they now carry is accompanied by significant responsibility.

“Today, you are not simply receiving a certificate of completion,” Benjamin said. “You are accepting a sacred trust. From this day forward, you are the guardians of the law, protectors of the vulnerable and ambassadors of the Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda.”

Benjamin also cautioned the recruits against treating policing as just another job.

“Policing is not only an eight-hour job. It is not for clock watchers or those who simply look forward to a paycheck,” he said.

He encouraged the graduates to remain dependable, courteous and composed, even in difficult situations, saying the force needs officers who can maintain their professionalism in the face of adversity.

“We need men and women who are dependable, courteous, polite and sensitive to the needs of others,” Benjamin said. “Men and women who, even in the face of adversity, can keep their composure and remain professionals.”

Benjamin also called on senior officers to mentor the newest members of the force, saying experienced personnel have a responsibility to provide leadership and guidance as the graduates begin their policing careers.

“They need your support and guidance in order to be successful,” he said. “You are responsible to provide some leadership and to ensure that they do not get lost along the way.”

The ceremony marked a milestone for the Royal Police Force, celebrating the graduation of its 50th recruit training course and welcoming a new class of officers into active service.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: New Police Officers Told Every Traffic Stop and Every Investigation Matters.