Restoring trust is essential for the Police Service of Trinidad & Tobago Policing around the world is under pressure and public scrutiny as never before. The demands on modern policing are such that effective and accountable leadership is essential. All too often management structures are unresponsive and those in senior roles reluctant to embrace change, let alone acknowledge failings and accept responsibility for inadequacies or serious misdemeanours. Many citizens around the world are keen to know precisely what the word ‘Service’ in the title ‘Police Service’ stands for in the modern age.
To citizens of Trinidad & Tobago the story in regard to the continued deterioration of public trust in the Police Service is a familiar one. Whilst there never were Halcyon Days when all was perfect, it is clear that there is a raft of issues and concerns that cannot simply be rubbished in the media, ignored and swept under the carpet. The charge sheet certainly makes disturbing reading:
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A perceived culture of impunity
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Anecdotal evidence of collusion with criminal gangs
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Persistent rumours of extra-judicial killings
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A total absence in some quarters of courtesy and people management skills and techniques
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Poor leadership and accountability
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Increasing signs of corrupt practices
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Intimidation using threats, verbal aggression and physical assaults
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Rogue officers demanding sexual favours from both men and women
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Inadequate fitness standards that sees many officers fall well below acceptable levels for operational efficiency
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Excessive use of police vehicles that are often driven in an aggressive manner with little or no reason other than to manifest naked power. Sirens and blue lights are routinely used to excess.
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Defensive management structures that appear to manifest little or no cognizance of the notion of public service