Fri, 2023-07-28

U.S. Consul General Karen Grissette and Police Commissioner Darrin Simons congratulated Detective Chief Inspector Arthur Glasford on graduating as a member of the 286th session of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) National Academy. The graduation took place at the National Academy in Quantico, Virginia on June 8, 2023. Arthur Glasford is the sixth officer of the Bermuda Police Service to complete this prestigious program. In the United States, fewer than one percent of officers have the opportunity to attend the program.

Internationally known for its academic excellence, the FBI National Academy offers ten weeks of advanced communication, leadership, and fitness training. Participants must have proven records as professionals within their agencies to attend. On average, these officers have 21 years of law enforcement experience and usually return to their agencies to serve in executive-level positions.

The 286th session consisted of two hundred and thirty-eight law enforcement officers from 47 states and the District of Columbia. The class included members of law enforcement agencies from 25 countries, five military organizations, and six federal civilian organizations.

Commissioner of Police Darrin Simons expressed his gratitude at the ongoing opportunity for high level law enforcement training with the FBI, and delight at Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Arthur Glasford’s achievement. “I am grateful that the tradition continues of Bermuda police officers being offered the opportunity to participate in first class training at the FBI National Academy and wholeheartedly congratulate DCI Glasford once again on successfully completing the rigorous curriculum.”

“Congratulations to Detective Chief Inspector Arthur Glasford for successfully representing the Bermuda Police Service and completing this intensive training provided by the United States through the FBI.  This professional course of study with the FBI helps to build even stronger relationships with our Bermudian partners, further strengthening our cooperation on a range of law enforcement issues.  Thank you to the Bermuda Police Service for your partnership and interest in professional training opportunities provided by the United States. I am proud and honored to increase law enforcement and security cooperation between the United States and Bermuda,” said U.S. Consul General Karen Grissette.

Detective Chief Inspector Arthur Glasford joined the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) as a Cadet in 1989 and 34 years later, has benefitted from a well-rounded policing career.

Locally, he has worked in the Roads Policing Unit, the Emergency Response Team, the Underwater Search and Rescue Team, and has held the post of Government Security Officer whilst in Special Branch.

DCI Glasford has also worked on joint investigation teams in Anguilla, as well as Jamaica, and has completed overseas police training courses in the U.K., United States, and the Caribbean.

Currently head of the BPS Professional Standards Department (PSD), DCI Glasford has interacted with very diverse groups of people while on duty – from Governors, Premiers, dignitaries, and members of Royal Families hailing from the United Kingdom, the Caribbean, Malaysia, Monaco and Jordan – to regular visitors and residents of Bermuda.

With patrol experience, plus years spent working in specialist units, DCI Glasford is a certified Search and Rescue Diver, and Close Protection Officer.

In November 2018, DCI Glasford had the honour and privilege to perform the duty of Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod, during Bermuda’s Convening of Parliament Ceremony.

About the U.S. Consulate General in Hamilton, Bermuda

The U.S. Consulate General in Hamilton is responsible for strengthening the relationship between the United States and Bermuda and for protecting American citizens who live, work, and visit the island.  U.S.-Bermuda engagement reaches across all sectors, including international business, maritime security, crisis response, space exploration, environmental research, athletics, arts, and education.

About the FBI National Academy<

FBI Academy instructors, special agents, and other staff with advanced degrees provide the training; many instructors are recognized internationally in their fields. Since 1972, National Academy students have been able to earn undergraduate and graduate credits from the University of Virginia, which accredits many of the courses offered. A total of 54,366 graduates have completed the FBI National Academy since it began in 1935. The National Academy is held at the FBI Training Academy in Quantico, the same facility where the FBI trains its new special agents and intelligence analysts.

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Thu, 2023-07-27

Shortly after 10:00 p.m. on Wednesday 26th July 2023, Police and Emergency Services personnel were dispatched to Southside Road, St. George’s (west of Lower Gates Road Roundabout) to a report of a single vehicle road traffic collision involving a motorcycle.

On police arrival, the rider, a 17-year-old male, was found lying on the median, with an apparent head injury. EMTs attended to the victim, who was transported by ambulance to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital for further treatment.

Officers from the Forensic Support Unit and a Traffic Collision Investigator were called out to process the scene, with the section of roadway being closed to vehicular traffic for just over three hours.

The motorcycle was reported to have been travelling east, along Southside Road, when the rider lost control of the bike and struck the median causing him to fall to the ground.

Officers later attended K.E.M.H. and were informed the rider had sustained a serious neck injury.

Anyone who may be able to assist with the investigation into this serious road traffic collision is asked to contact Police Constable Lisa-Nichole Tucker on 295-0011 or, via email ltucker@bps.bm.

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Tue, 2023-07-25

Acting Detective Superintendent Sherwin Joseph – “Good Afternoon to the media and Bermuda. I will be the Gold Commander for the upcoming Cup Match holiday weekend.

This is an exciting time of the year for Bermuda, where we celebrate Emancipation Day and Mary Prince Day with our friends, family and loved ones.

The purpose of this press conference concerns how the Bermuda Police Service plans to make this weekend safer for everyone.

The Bermuda Police Service wishes to take this opportunity to advise the general public on our plans that will be implemented to achieve this.

Cup Match Classic

This year’s Cup Match Classic will be held in St. George’s on Thursday 3rd August and Friday 4th August, 2023, between the Somerset and St. George’s Cricket Clubs.

The Bermuda Police Service, working in partnership with the management of St. George’s Cricket Club, the Bermuda Reserve Police, the Royal Bermuda Regiment, St. John’s Ambulance and other stakeholders, will have a strong presence at the venue on both days, to ensure that a safe environment is promoted for all.

Co-located in the Joint Agency Command Centre (JACC), as in previous years, we will be prepared to respond to any calls for service in a proportionate and appropriate manner.

Horseshoe Beach

Similarly, and in particular, on Thursday 3^rd August, 2023, the Bermuda Police Service, working in conjunction with Parks Department and other relevant stakeholders, will provide a robust presence at Horseshoe Beach.

We have traditionally seen an uptick in attendance to this location on the Thursday of the long weekend. We also intend to utilise a drone to monitor and direct police response to calls for service.

Our presence at these locations are necessary to discourage those members of our community who may seek to disrupt the weekend’s festivities with acts of violence or anti-social behaviour.

Road Safety

In keeping with the road safety strategy to reduce road traffic collisions on our roads, the Bermuda Police Service supported by our Police Reserves, will conduct high visibility patrols island wide, and will man a number of roadside sobriety checkpoints throughout the island.

It is our intention to engage the motoring public in the form of visible presence, issuing motorist advisory notices, moving violation tickets; and to arrest where it is legal, necessary and appropriate to do so. These types of engagements are necessary to calm our roads, deter drunk and dangerous driving and make the roads safer for all of us.

Marine Safety

In addition, the Bermuda Police Service and Reserve officers will work alongside our partners at the Royal Bermuda Regiment Coastguard, to ensure that a strong and visible presence is evident on our waters.

We ask that sea goers ensure that their vessels are registered, that all necessary operating and safety equipment is on board, and that they have sufficient fuel for their journey.

Please let someone know when you intend to leave and when you expect to return. It is also recommended that a float plan is filed with Bermuda Maritime Operations Centre, on VHF channel 27, if heading offshore.

Enjoy Safely & Responsibly

Our advice to you is to have fun, but have fun in a safe and responsible manner. Be considerate to other persons and drink responsibly.

In closing, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police and his Senior Leadership Team, we wish each and every one of you a Happy Cup Match that is safe and enjoyable.”

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Mon, 2023-07-24

Around 5:35pm on Monday July 24th, police and other first responders were dispatched to a report of a two vehicle road traffic accident, involving a car and a truck on Middle Road Southampton, just west of Raynor’s Gas Station.

Details are limited, however one person has been transported to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital for treatment. The extent of the injuries is not known at this time.

Traffic is being diverted at Camp Hill Road, Scenic Heights and Middle Road / Southampton Princess.

Traffic delays are to be expected until the scene is cleared.

Update: At last check, the car driver hurt in a collision with a truck on Middle Road, Southampton near Williamsville Place around 5:35pm Monday, 24th July 2023, was understood to have sustained non-life threatening injuries.

Apparently the truck driver was unhurt. The car and truck involved, believed to be driven by a 28-year-old Southampton man and a 54-year-old Warwick man respectively, were said to be travelling in opposite directions at the time.

Any witnesses are asked to call 211.

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Sun, 2023-07-23

At 4pm Thursday, 20th July 2023 the Passing Out Parade for Recruit Foundation Course 82 took place at Police Headquarters in Prospect, Devonshire.

Nine Constables, consisting of three women and six men ranging in age from 20 to 45 years old were on parade, accompanied by the Bermuda Island Pipe Band under the command of Pipe Sergeant Aidan Stones. They were led by the Parade Commander and Drill Instructor Constable Peter-Paul Taylor.

The newest members of the Bermuda Police Service are:

Constable 2581 Bryanna Bell

Constable 2582 James Adams

Constable 2583 Kwensi Cann

Constable 2584 Christopher DeSilva

Constable 2585 Julian Johnson

Constable 2586 Raeshun Robinson

Constable 2587 Kelise Stewart

Constable 2588 Sandra Stowe

Constable 2589 Kyrun Zuill

Also of note:

Constable James Adams is the son of a long serving member of the Bermuda Police Service, retired Assistant Commissioner of Police Carlton Adams.

Constable Christopher DeSilva’s grandfather, Raymond DeSilva Sr., was a recruit on the very first Recruit Foundation Course and went on to serve for five years.

Constable Kyrun Zuill’s grandfather was also a serving Bermuda police officer.

Commissioner of Police Mr. Darrin Simons, on behalf of the men and women of the Bermuda Police Service, congratulated and welcomed the nine new officers into the Bermuda Police Service family.

Dignitaries in attendance included: Her Excellency the Governor, Ms. Rena Lalgie and Minister of National Security, the Hon. Michael Weeks, JP, MP. Both spoke at Thursday’s ceremony.

Special guests in attendance included: Deputy Opposition Leader, Mr. Jarion Richardson; Permanent Secretary for National Security, Lt. Col. Edward Lamb (Ret.); Commanding Officer of the Royal Bermuda Regiment, Lt. Col. Benjamin Beasley, BEM; Honorary Colonel of the Royal Bermuda Regiment, John David Gibbons O.B.E, E.D.; Collector of Customs, Mrs. Lucinda Pearman; Director of Public Prosecutions, Ms. Cindy Clarke, JP; Chief Fire Officer, Mr. Dana Lovell; Commissioner of Corrections, Ms. Keeva-Mae Joell-Benjamin; Assistant Commissioner of Corrections, Mr. Philip Downie; Commandant of the Bermuda Reserve Police, Mr. Ron-Michel Davis; President of the Ex-Police Officers Association, Mr. Calvin Smith; Chief Officer (Court and Security), Ryan Belboda; Assistant Police Chaplain, Constable Corville Hylton and Centre Against Abuse Executive Director Mrs. Laurie Shiell-Smith.

There were several awards presented during the ceremony. The awards and recipients were:

Athletic Awards - The Instructors Cup is an award that is given to the fastest male and female officer over the International 10 kilometre or 6 mile Flatts road running course.

The Instructors Cup was presented to Constable Bryanna Bell for the fastest time of 1 hour 5 minutes and 57 seconds in the female category.

The Instructors Cup was presented to Constable Kwensi Cann for the fastest time of 59 minutes and 18 seconds in the male category.

All Round Athlete & Physical Fitness Awards

Constable Bryanna Bell (female).

Constable James Adams (male).

Michael Mylod’s Cup – This award is for the best effort on the course and the officer who has made the most significant progress.

Awarded to Constable Kelise Stewart.

Charitable Presentation – It is a tradition of each Recruit Foundation Course to raise money in aid of a charity of their choice. All members of RFC 82 decided that the Centre Against Abuse would be the recipient of their charitable donation.

A cheque for $3,000 was presented to Mrs. Laurie Shiell-Smith, Executive Director of the Centre Against Abuse.

Academic Award – Awarded to Constable Christopher DeSilva, who achieved an overall test average of 91% over 11 exams.

Commissioner’s Shield – Awarded to Blue Syndicate, led by Training Centre staff member Constable Julia Swan; consisting of Constable Bryanna Bell, Constable James Adams, Constable Christopher DeSilva, Constable Raeshun Robinson  and Constable Kyrun Zuill.

The award was collected by Constable James Adams.

Baton of Honour – Awarded to Constable James Adams, who was selected as the most distinguished student officer by the Training Centre staff.

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Sun, 2023-07-23

Around 1:15am Saturday, 22nd July 2023, a collision occurred involving a motorcyclist and two pedestrians on Front Street in the City of Hamilton, near the junction with Burnaby Street.

A local male rider, as well as a visiting male pedestrian and a visiting female pedestrian, were injured.

All three were transported to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital via ambulance for treatment.

At last check the three injured individuals, all understood to be in their 20s, were receiving medical care at the hospital for non-life threatening injuries.

The scene was processed and police officers have already spoken with a number of witnesses.

Inquiries continue by the investigating officer, Sergeant Dominique Simons.

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Thu, 2023-07-20

The Bermuda Police Service (BPS) can now confirm the sudden death of 68-year-old Calvin Thomas and extends sincere condolences to his family and friends.

The Devonshire resident’s lifeless body was found floating in the waters off of North Shore Road, Devonshire around 6:40pm Saturday, 15th July 2023.

An autopsy has since ruled out foul play and confirmed that Mr. Thomas tragically drowned.

A BPS Family Liaison Officer continues to provide relevant support to his loved ones.

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Wed, 2023-07-19

With a variety of summer programmes involving a number of children currently underway, the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) reminds residents of some general safety advice.

Water Activities

Children should never be left unsupervised near a pool or the ocean. Responsible adults need to properly supervise children at all times when on the beaches and shorelines as well as around public and private pools. Children, especially young ones, can get into trouble quickly, even in shallow water.

While deemed by some a cultural rite of passage, cliff diving is a very dangerous activity and should be avoided. Many young lives have been forever changed as a result of cliff diving incidents gone wrong. When at the beach, check to see if there are lifeguards on duty or, at the very least, if a flotation device with an attached lanyard is nearby, which can be thrown to anyone experiencing difficulty in the water. Children who are not strong swimmers should use personal floatation aids if going swimming.

Personal life jackets should be worn on all boats - especially with children and those who cannot swim. Also, have at the least one life jacket for each boat passenger. Avoid having children sit on the bow (front) of any boat, especially small fast powerboats where a large wake or quick stop could lead to serious injury.

Traffic Awareness

Children also require adult supervision if walking near traffic (especially when in groups) and should always walk on the sidewalk, if possible. Motorists are asked to be especially vigilant near playgrounds and homes, as children playing in those areas may run out into the road without warning. Never allow children to play in the road.

Safety is the Top Priority

Children should be reassured that they can speak with a trusted adult if they feel uncomfortable in any situation. Adults, including summer programme staff, can help ensure a safer summer for Bermuda’s children by being vigilant and reporting any concerns or suspicious circumstances to the BPS by calling 211, or 911 in an emergency.

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Wed, 2023-07-19

Around 12:20am on 19 July, police and other first responders were dispatched to a report of a serious single vehicle collision on Pitts Bay Road, near the junction with Turnstile Lane, Pembroke.

Initial information suggests that a man on a livery cycle, was traveling north on Pitts Bay Road, when he lost control of the  vehicle, causing him to strike a wall and utility pole.

The man was transported to King Edward VII Memorial Hospital,  for treatment of possible head injuries.

A section of Pitts Bay Road was closed for just over an hour, while police processed the scene. 

Anyone who may have witnessed this collision is asked to call 211 or 295-0011.

Update: 20th July - At last check the rider hurt in a single vehicle rental scooter collision on Pitts Bay Road, Pembroke near Turnstile Lane around 12:20am Wednesday, 19th July 2023, was being treated at the hospital for injuries understood to be non-life threatening.

Apparently, the 38-year-old visiting American man was expected to be discharged from the hospital in due course, after receiving relevant medical care.

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Mon, 2023-07-17

Detectives continue their inquiries into a reported large disturbance that occurred around 12:10am Saturday, 15th July 2023 on Somerset Road in Sandys parish, near Cambridge Road.

Initial information indicated that three men, now understood to be a 37-year-old, a 34-year-old and a 19-year-old were injured, treated at hospital and later discharged.

However, it has since been confirmed that only the two older men were discharged from the hospital after medical care. At last check the 19-year-old man remained at the hospital, receiving medical treatment for what are understood to be non-life threatening injuries at this time.

The witness appeal continues and investigators are still keen to speak with anyone who was in the Somerset Road, Cambridge Road Sandys parish area around 12:10am Saturday, 15th July 2023.

Members of the public with relevant information are once again encouraged to call Detective Sergeant Odessa Philip on 717-2193, e-mail ophilip@bps.bm or call the Criminal Investigations Department on 247-1744.

Alternatively, those that can assist are encouraged to speak to a police officer they know, or provide an anonymous tip by calling the independent and confidential Crime Stoppers hotline, 800-8477.

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