Fri, 2021-02-05

February 28th 2021 - This marks the end of our Black History Month Trailblazer series. We hope you enjoyed getting know who we are and we would like to thank you all for your likes, shares and kind remarks on social media for our past and present trailblazers.

There are many more officers and staff who have achieved great things during their careers with the BPS, however there is no way we can cover them all in one month. With that said, we will continue to showcase our BPS trailblazers throughout the year. 

We will end our BPS Black History Month Trailblazer series with none other than, the late Sergeant Gregory Grimes who tragically lost his life while on duty in December 2016.

Our final Black History Month Trailblazer: Sergeant Gregory McArthur “Porky” Grimes

On 14 December 2016, the Bermuda Police Service and the community were deeply saddened to hear the tragic news that our good friend and colleague Sergeant Gregory Grimes passed away suddenly whilst on duty.

Gregory was an exceptionally popular policeman who always took the time to mentor younger police officers.  We know that many of our present and recently retired members will have fond memories of working with Greg, who in 2009 and 2011, was chosen as “Police Officer of the Year and Sergeant of the Year.”

Gregory joined the BPS as a police cadet in August 1978. He was promoted to Police Sergeant in April 1991, and he served in a variety of posts including Central Uniform, Criminal Investigation Department, and Special Branch.

For the years prior to his passing, he held the post of Senior Custody Sergeant. In this role Gregory managed the custody facility at Hamilton Police Station and he had direct leadership of new police recruits and probationary constables. His professional commitment and high performance earned him the award of Officer of the Year twice in a five-year period. He was the recipient of several Commissioner’s Commendations, Police Long Service Awards and Letters of Good Work and in June 2016, Sergeant Grimes was awarded the Overseas Territories (Police) Medal for meritorious service in the Queen's Birthday Honours List.

Gregory made a positive impression on many lives during his illustrious career and after retiring in 2016, he was request to return to the BPS; and continued to share his knowledge and experience.

Outside of policing, Gregory served as a board member and former chair of the Bermuda Football Association (BFA) as well as a FIFA referee. He was actively involved in all aspects of football in Bermuda for over 20 years, including youth football, coaching and refereeing. He represented Bermuda internationally as part of the BFA’s delegations to matches held by the Caribbean Football Union and CONCACAF.

In addition, he loved to travel and was always at the ready with bags packed to take a Cruise, and had travelled throughout the Caribbean, Alaska, the Mediterranean and many other places.

On his passing, a recognition funeral was authorized and Gregory’s contribution and memory  was honoured and he was celebrated with, Full Police Honours at his Funeral Service which was held at The Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity on Church Street in Hamilton at 11am on Wednesday 21st December 2016, The Cathedral was packed to capacity and overflowing with Police Senior Command, Government Officials, Associations, Sports Clubs, family, friends, and many of Greg's present and former colleagues who had served alongside him in the Bermuda Police Service.

In his tribute to Sergeant Grimes, at his funeral Commissioner Michael DeSilva, stated, “In May of 2015, I submitted an application to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office through Government House in Bermuda. In part, the application read:

“Sergeant Grimes is highly regarded in the BPS as an exemplary, compassionate and energetic supervisor. He provides model leadership to his staff, inspires positive morale, and delivers professional coaching and mentoring to junior staff. He has gained a reputation as a “steady hand at the wheel,” and his professional commitment and high performance has earned him the award of Officer of the Year twice in the last five years.”

“Sergeant Grimes is regarded as highly competent in the custody suite and he is considered to be the most experienced and capable custody sergeant serving in the BPS. His leadership has made a significant difference to the organisation by helping to provide a smooth, trouble-free transition to our new custody facility. His professional manner and excellent skill sets have helped the BPS navigate through a sea-change brought on by legislative amendments, while protecting the professional performance and reputation of the BPS in the area of custody and detention.  Sergeant Grimes’ service to policing in Bermuda has been meritorious and deserving of recognition and it is my honour to make this recommendation.”

Sergeant Gregory McArthur Grimes, was, and still is, held in the highest regard by both his colleagues in the BPSD and the Community, and he was an exceptional role model for all of those who he came into contact with and followed in his footsteps. May he continue to Rest in Peace.

February 27th 2021 - Today’s Black History Month Trailblazer: Sergeant Cerepha Bridgeman

Cerepha Bridgeman, is from the island of Barbados. She joined the Bermuda Police Service in September 2008.

She has worked as a uniform patrol officer and was subsequently transferred to the Community Action Team as a Community Officer. 

Sergeant Bridgeman exemplifies the epitome of a community officer and regularly assist with community oriented tasks, supports her colleagues and other agencies with community outreach and at risk youth and the elderly.

She has received specialized training in various areas and in November 2017, she successfully completed her certifications in Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED), in addition, she is an instructor in Gang Resistance Education and Training (G.R.E.A.T.), a volunteer life coach with the MIRRORS Program.

As a result of her outstanding commitment to the Mirrors Program in 2018, she was awarded the Mirrors Silver Award.  Also in 2018, Cerepha was nominated in the ACCP Regional Awards in the category of Top Caribbean Community Policing Officer and placed a respectable second runner up position.

In June 2019, Cerepha was promoted to the rank of Police Sergeant and continues to work in the role of Community Officer as her dedication to the community has resulted in her receiving the Volunteer of the Year Award for the Mirrors Programme in July of 2020.

Her public-spirited character and willingness to go beyond have been demonstrated in many ways as she consistently gives of her best as she works within the community whether on or off duty.

Sergeant Bridgeman’s commitment to the BPS and the communities in which she serves is an excellent example of an outstanding community officer whose dedication to volunteering is an impressive work-life balance second to none.

February 27th 2021 - Today's Black History Month Trailblazer: Constable Angela Cox

Angela, is a Bermudian officer, married to Dean and the mother of two sons. She joined the Bermuda Police Service, in June 1986. Angela, spent the majority of her career working as a patrol officer at Hamilton Police Station.

She remained there until 1995, when she transferred to the Women’s Police Office where she investigated Juvenile Crimes and all matters involving juveniles. Following that she had a brief period in Criminal Investigation Department, before being transferred to Parish Office where she performed the role of Pembroke Parish Constable; and later appointed as the 1st female Parish Officer for the “City of Hamilton”.

She is presently attached to Police Prosecutions Dept. (Court Liaison Unit) as the Daily Plea Court Officer. In addition to her policing role, Angela previously owned and managed a small clothing boutique in the City of Hamilton. She enjoys cooking and exercising and maintains a healthy and happy lifestyle. 

This year she will be celebrating 34 years of service to the people of Bermuda, and we say thank you for your contribution to “Making Bermuda Safer.”

February 27th 2021 - Today's Black History Month Trailblazer: Mrs. Brenda Johnson

Mrs. Johnson joined Bermuda Police Service as a civilian member on 8th December 1975. She is the Traffic Records Clerk at Police Headquarters, Prospect. She maintains and keeps immaculate records of all reported traffic collisions in the island of Bermuda. She also held the post of BPS Garage Cost Clerk.

Mrs. Johnson has been employed with BPS for over 45 years, making her the longest serving member (police staff/officer) in the history of the service, having served under the administration of ten Police Commissioners.

In 2019, at the BPS Awards Ceremony, Brenda was awarded a Commissioner’s Commendation for her long and distinguished service to the BPS, in addition to a Commissioners Merit Award in 2009.

In addition, Brenda has been married to Mitchel for forty years and has three children Damon, Mechell and Marcus-Alan and six beautiful grandchildren. In her spare time Brenda enjoys reading and spending time with her family and friends.

We take this time to thank Brenda for her dedication and commitment to the BPS and her service to the people of Bermuda.

February 26th 2021 - Today's Black History Month Trailblazer: Acting Detective Inspector Dorian Astwood

Dorian is a Bermudian officer who began his career with the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) in January 1993. He has been selected and posted in several key positions; in addition to having successfully completed numerous specialized training courses locally and overseas.

Dorian was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in October 2003, and is presently Acting Inspector, OIC Special Branch and Government Security Officer. He is a Police Vehicles Driving Instructor, Close Protection Officer, Tactical Firearms Commander and Firearms Tactical Advisor having served 19 years as a member and Team Leader in the Firearms Emergency Response Team. 

During the span of his career, Dorian has been the recipient of 4 Commissioner Commendations, 5 Team Merit Awards and in 2019 he was recognised by the Department of Public Prosecution for Outstanding Service.

He maintains a healthy lifestyle and fitness regime and in his off time can often be found working out in the gym; and either cycling or walking with his wife Shannell.

February 26th 2021 - Today’s Black History Month Trailblazer: Commandant Sandra Cortina Beach

On Thursday, 8 October, 2015, Sandra Cortina Beach, broke the glass ceiling when she became the first female to be appointed as Commandant of the Bermuda Police Reserves.

Commandant Beach a graduate of the Whitney Institute School, joined the Bermuda Reserve Police July, 1995, and immediately her leadership qualities were exposed and in April 1998, she was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. She continued to work hard to rise up the ranks and was promoted to Reserve Inspector in September of the following year. Her efforts and strong work ethic did not end there and was again she was promoted to Chief Inspector in April, 2001.

During the month of May that year, as a Chief Inspector, Ms. Beach was exposed to operating in a strategic leadership role as she oversaw the running of the entire organization owing to the absence of the Commandant, Deputy Commandant and Superintendent. In addition, she worked in all divisions of the Service and was promoted to Superintendent in September, 2004.

Commandant Beach is known for organizing skills and performing leadership roles on behalf of the Bermuda Police Service, in many of the community events; including, the Annual Girl Guides Thinking Day Service, Harbour Nights Policing Plans and the Annual Christmas Parade, held in the City of Hamilton. She has received overseas training and attended several conferences and courses in Barbados, Canada, London, Bahamas and the United Kingdom.

For her service she has been awarded the Queen’s Jubilee Medal in 2002, the Colonial Police Long Service Award, in October 2010, for 15 years of service, and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012 and the Colonial Police Long Service Award in October 2020, for 25 years of service. She is presently leading on the 70th anniversary celebration plans for the Reserves in July of this year.

In addition to her Reserve duties, Commandant Beach is currently employed at the Transport Control Department as the Account/Administration Officer where she has been employed for over 36 years. She has son named, Henry Talbot IV, and enjoys spending time with friends and family.

February 25th 2021 - Today's Black History Month Trailblazer: Ms. Carole Royer

In 1959, Ms. Carole Royer, became the first black female and the first civilian to work in an administrative position for the Bermuda Police Force.

Commissioner Henderson was in charge of the Police Force when she joined the Force and by the time she retired forty years later, in March 1999, she had served under the administration of seven Police Commissioners.

On her retirement Carole was honoured with the Queen’s Certificate and Badge of Honour for her Long Service to the Police, and a gold award and plaque from Commissioner Colin Coxall for her outstanding contribution to the Bermuda Police.

Carole continues her relationship with her friends and former colleagues of the BPS by attending social events or via telephone calls. Carole paved the way and trained many of the females and male officers alike and was instrumental in creating the systems that are used today.

Thank you Carole for your many contributions, service and dedication to the Bermuda Police Service and the people Bermuda.

February 25th 2021 - Today's Black History Month Trailblazer: Mrs. Deborah Binns-Robinson

Mrs. Binns-Robinson joined Government on 14th November 1977, working at the Department of Tourism and later the Registrar of Companies. In December 1983, she joined the Bermuda Police Service, Police Headquarters, Prospect, as an Administrative Assistant with Special Branch/Intelligence until 2012.

Mrs. Binns-Robinson has been employed with Government and the BPS for over 43 years. She continues to perform her duties as the Administrative Assistant for the Superintendent in charge at Hamilton Police Station; making her one of the longest serving members in the history of the service, having served under the administration of nine Police Commissioners.

Her other connection to the BPS is with her sibling Christopher who also works for the BPS. Deborah is married to Russell and has two sons Antoine and Russell Jr. In addition to her work commitments, Mrs. Binns-Robinson enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends and is an active member of the Seventh day Adventist Church.

Deborah, we take this time to salute you for your contribution to public service and to your significant achievements within the Bermuda Police Service.

February 25th 2021 - Today’s Black History Month Trailblazer: Sergeant Michael “Terry” Thomas

Sergeant Thomas is a Bermudian who joined the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) as a Cadet in August 1986. During his tenure he has served in several key post within the BPS and is arguably the most trained officer in the service.

In March 2007, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and his policing role includes; Police Motor Car and Cycle Driving Instructor, BPS Chief Firearms Instructor and Service Armourer, Emergency Response Team (ERT) Member as well as the Coordinator, Officer Safety Instructor, Public Order Instructor, Incident Commander and Trainer.

He remains active within the organisation in his efforts to maintain morale as a member of the annual Police Week Committee responsible for the fun day/sports day and police gymkhana.

In addition to his policing duties, Terry is an avid sportsman and has represented various sports clubs including Young Men’s Social Club,  Nationals Sports Club, Devonshire Recreation Club, North Village Community Club, St George's Stallions and the BPS in cricket and football, both locally and internationally. He is also an active member of cycling club Winners Edge and has participated in several of the Annual Heritage Day Sinclair Packwood Memorial Cycle Race.

He is also a member of the Police Recreation Club Executive and recently; Terry has become somewhat of a “green thumb” growing vegetables and other fresh produce in his yard, which he shares with his friends and colleagues. He is an devoted supporter and regularly boast and brags about his beloved Manchester United Football Team and we take this to recognize Sergeant Thomas for his dedication and commitment to the Bermuda Police Service.

February 24th 2021 - Today's Black History Month Trailblazer: Former Inspector Jean Vickers (nee Mattis)

Jean Vickers (nee Mattis) made history as our first Bermudian female police officer when she was recruited by then Commissioner George Robins who made the decision to recruit women into the Bermuda Police in the early 1960’s.  Jean joined the BPS in January 1962, attending our first 3 month Basic Training Course #1 along with two other females, Betty Osborne and Gwendolyn DeGrilla.

These three were posted to the newly formed Policewomen’s Department then headed by Inspector Isobel Lee who had been hired from the UK to set up the Department.  Initially, our female officers dealt with such matters as offences against women including rape, indecent assaults and domestic violence, the ill-treatment of children, and handling female prisoners when arrested,  but they soon began dealing with a wider variety of police work.  Jean excelled in the job and was soon awarded a Commissioner's Commendation for investigating a forgery case in 1964, and a second Commendation in 1966 in connection with a drugs case.

In 1968 Jean was promoted to Sergeant and second-in-charge of the Police Women’s Department, and in 1977, when W/Inspector Lee retired, Jean was promoted to Inspector-in-charge of the Department. Having earned the distinction of becoming the first Bermudian Female to be promoted to the rank of Police Inspector.

While there, Jean was instrumental in setting up the Juvenile Liaison Scheme (JLS) which could be said to be the most effective project ever undertaken by the BPS to deal with juvenile crime.   Never one to stand still, Jean also founded “The Black Stockings” a fund-raising charity involving all the policewomen and traffic wardens which held numerous events to support local charities and young people in the community, namely, “Meals on Wheels, sending children on local and international Outward Bound Courses, and enlisting teenagers in the popular “Up With People” organisation.  

Under Jean’s command the role of policewomen steadily expanded in all areas of police work, and by the time she retired in 1987 there were at least 18 policewomen in the BPS.  Jean was the first woman to serve as Supreme Court Officer, and the first woman to serve as ADC to the Premier. Jean was awarded the Colonial Police Medal (CPM) for Meritorious Service in 1987, and the CPM for Long Service and Good Conduct in 1987.

Jean was, and still is, held in the highest regard by both the BPS and the community, and has been an exceptional role model for all those who have followed in her footsteps.

February 24th 2021 - Today’s Black History Month Trailblazer: Assistant Commissioner Antoine Daniels

Mr. Antoine Daniels, a black Bermudian, joined the Bermuda Police Force (Service) in 1984 as a Cadet and rose through the ranks becoming one of the Police Service’s youngest Assistant Commissioners in July 2012, at the age of 44.

He has two sons Antoine and Ahri and is married to Alison. Throughout his career he has held significant responsibilities including acting as the Strategic Commander for the America's Cup 2017, as well as the strategic lead for police firearms and public order response. ACOP Daniels has significant experience in managing major criminal cases from both operational and strategic levels, having spent large periods of his career as an investigator.

Mr. Daniels has received significant training and in addition to his BSc. in Criminal Justice, he completed the International Commanders Programme in 2008 and the International Strategic Leadership Programme in 2010, at UK’s National Policing Improvement Agency. At that time Assistant Commissioner Daniels was only the second student at the Staff College to receive Executive Diplomas in both Strategic Management and Leadership from the Chartered Management Institute. In 2020 he successfully completed the prestigious Strategic Command Course held at the UK’s College of Policing, achieving an overall result of Distinction.

In his spare time Mr. Daniels enjoys spending time with family, engaging with close friends and is an avid sportsman, who enjoys tennis, cricket and football, having represented the Bermuda Police football team in a number of overseas tournaments.

Often he can be seen providing support and guidance to young people across the island and in particular, at his beloved home town St. Georges Cricket Club. Mr. Daniels is often recognised by his colleagues for his passion for improving community safety, as well as his commitment to coaching and mentoring officers of all ranks.

February 23rd 2021 - Today's Black History Month Trailblazer: Reginald Chesterfield Eugene “Pickles” Smith

Eugene or “Pickles” as he is widely known Bermudian who began his employment with the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) as an apprentice motor mechanic having completed his training at the Bermuda College in October 1978.

He now has over 43 years of service, making him one of the longest serving members (police/civilian) in the history of the BPS. Pickles entire work and adult life has been spent working with the Bermuda Police Service.

During his employment, he has been an important part of the team that keeps all BPS vehicles maintained and road worthy, thereby keeping the general public, police officers and staff of the organization safe.

In addition to his long and celebrated career with the BPS, Pickles is an avid sportsman who has represented the North Village Community Club, Centours United, Vasco de Gama and St David Cricket Club in football. He is an active member of the BPS Football and Golf Sections and is also a member of the Ocean View Golf Club.

Pickles has also participated in the Annual Heritage Day Road Race (24 May) on several occasions, starting at the age of 16 years old and has finished a respectable 9th place on several of those occasions.

He volunteers his time as a member of the BPS Police Week Committee and regularly contributes his efforts to other BPS internal and community events. We take this time to thank “Pickles” for his contribution to his community and for helping to Make Bermuda Safer.

February 23rd 2021 - Today's Black History Month Trailblazer: Inspector Charlene Thompson

Charlene joined the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) in April 1995, and was a graduate from Recruit Foundation Course #50. She was also awarded the coveted “Baton of Honour” as the Best Overall Recruit.

During her employment with the BPS, she has held several key positions including, the  Criminal Investigations Department, Community and Juvenile Services, Serious Crime Unit, OIC Training Department and the Organised and Economic Crime Division.

Another first for Charlene was to be the first female Police Inspector, Guard Commander to lead the BPS Guard in the annual Queen’s Birthday Parade celebration. More recently she was posted as OIC Roads Policing/Airport Unit and is presently posted to the Commissioner’s Office on Special Projects.

In addition to her policing duties, Charlene is the mother of two young ladies Jasmine and Kiara and three grandchildren, ages 11, 9 and 2 years old.

She spends her weekends baking the best culinary goods, sewing or quilting, bed spreads and handbags, all of which she donates to local charities.

She is an avid sports person and maintains a healthy lifestyle. In 2005, 2008 and 2009, she participated in the Annual Bermuda Day Marathon. In 2007, she had the privilege to represent Bermuda as part of the first Women’s National Cricket team.

Team which participated in the Women’s Cricket World Cup, held in South Africa. Thank you Inspector Thompson for your contribution to help “Make Bermuda Safer.”

February 23rd 2021 - Today's Black History Month Trailblazer: Sergeant Fiona Miller

Sergeant Miller is a Bermudian Officer who joined the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) in June 1991. During her varied tenure as a Police Officer, Fiona has served in a number of key positions within the BPS. She has received specialist training and was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in June 2005.

She holds the distinction of in 2001, becoming the first BPS Female Motor Vehicle Driving Instructor and remains active to date.

Fiona is also a member of the BPS Critical Incident Stress Management Team. She has held post as OIC Cadet Training as well as a Recruitment Officer for the Service and has been a member of the recruitment team that has travelled to the UK, Canada and the Caribbean to recruit officers for the BPS.

In her present posting as Sergeant in the Court Liaison Office she continues to coach and mentor her staff and maintains excellent working relationships with BPS stakeholders and partners working in Bermuda’s Criminal Justice and Court systems.

In June 2021, Fiona will celebrate 30 years of service to the people of Bermuda. In addition to her policing duties, Fiona is an Executive Member of the Bermuda Bicycling Association and a social member of the Winners Edge Bicycle Club.

In 2019, she earned her certification in First Aid with the St. John's Ambulance Brigade and involves herself in assisting and supporting seniors in the community.

February 19th 2021 - Today's Black History Month Trailblazer: Inspector Emmerson Carrington

Emmerson who was born in Barbados joined the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) in June 2003. He has held several key postings within the BPS, inclusive of a Training School Instructor, Traffic Collision Investigator and Firearms Incident Commander.

He was promoted to the rank of Inspector in January 2011. His present posting is the BPS Offender Risk Management Team Coordinator and he continues to works closely with our sister services and other helping agencies.

In addition to his policing duties, Emmerson is an avid sportsman and was the head of the BPS Bowling Team, the Blue Lanterns in the local bowling league. In 2013, he organized and led a team of BPS Athletes to the World Police and Fire Games, held in Belfast, Ireland, where they won several silver and bronze medals.

Since 2010, he has been a member of the Bermuda Cricket Board Umpires Association, and currently holds an Executive position of Assistant Secretary. He has officiated in International World Cup T20 Matches and since 2014, he has been the Senior Umpiring Official in Bermuda’s Annual Cup Match Classic.

Having become a cricket umpire, for the years 2014, 2017, 2018 and most recently in 2019, Emmerson was awarded the coveted title of BCB Cricket Umpire of the Year.

To unwind and relax you will find Emmerson in the Prospect Police Barracks Kitchen baking and providing his friends and colleagues with his wonderful Caribbean Coco Bread.

Inspector Emmerson Carrington we take this time to say thank you for your Service.

February 18th 2021 - Today’s Black History Month Trailblazer: Former Inspector Edward “Bosun” Swainson

Inspector Edward R. “Bosun” Swainson made history when he scored the first century in Cup Match in 1937, and he went on to become a legendary police officer who was our first black officer to be promoted to the rank of Inspector.

Edward was born in Bermuda in 1901. As a young man he proved to be an outstanding all-round sportsman and was clearly an exceptional cricketer who joined St George’s C.C. at the age of 15, and by 1925 he was appointed captain of St. George‘s Cup Match team.  

It is a little known fact that during the 1920’s Bermuda would regularly send teams of our best “coloured” cricketers to New York to compete against teams from the West Indies. After his brilliant performances during a 1927 tour, it was said of Bosun that he “… gave such an exhibition of masterly batting as evoked the plaudits of the most sophisticated critics, who acclaimed him when he first played in New York, as the finest batsman seen in New York since the Australians visited the country over 20 years ago.” High praise indeed!

“Bosun” or “Bo” as he became known, joined the Police Force in 1935, and quickly established his reputation as a resourceful and excellent police officer. Two years later he scored 122 runs to achieve the first century in Cup Match, and he almost repeated this feat the next year when he scored 99. 

By 1945, “Bosun” had also proven his ability as a highly efficient investigator, and he was appointed as a Detective.  Three years later, in May 1948 “Bosun” was promoted to Detective Sergeant, and less than 12 months later he made history when he was promoted to Detective Inspector becoming the first black Bermudian to reach the rank of Inspector.

“Bosun” retired from the Police in 1956 after a distinguished career. You can read more about the legendary Edward R. “Bosun” Swainson on the Bermuda ExPo website at: http://expobermuda.com/index.php/latesthof/723-edward-bosun-swainson.

February 17th 2021 - Today’s Black History Month Trailblazer: Former Chief Superintendent Oliver Salsbury Winfield "Chief" Trott QPM CSM LSM

Chief Superintendent Oliver “Chief” Trott was, without doubt one of the most popular and respected officers to ever serve in the Bermuda Police Force. Although his later years were spent as Chief Superintendent in Uniform, it is as a brilliant detective that he earned his richly deserved reputation. Oliver, was born in St. George’s on 24th July 1914, the eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Trott. Their family home was the yellow cottage standing just behind Somers Gardens at the corner of Shinbone Alley.

We’re not sure what compelled Oliver to do so, but in 1939 at the age of 24, he made the decision to join the Bermuda Police Service, at a time when men of “colour” had great difficulty making progress through the ranks. Oliver spent his early years on the Force in uniform, first at Hamilton Police Station and then as Paget Parish Constable. He spent some time serving in Somerset, however, in 1952, he was transferred to CID which was clearly the turning point in his Police career. He excelled as a detective officer and spent most of the rest of his distinguished career in CID. His rapid progress through the ranks was a testament to his ability and dedication. He was promoted to Detective Sergeant in 1955, and just one year later, in 1956, he was promoted to Detective Inspector. That was an exceptionally quick promotion by any standard. Five years later, in 1961, he was promoted to Chief Inspector in charge of Central CID where he cemented his reputation as an outstanding detective. During his time in CID Oliver was involved in the investigation of many serious crimes, including the Warwick murders, and on several major cases he worked closely with Scotland Yard Detectives brought in from abroad to provide assistance.

In 1967, Oliver was promoted to Superintendent in uniform and became Bermuda’s first recruiting officer in charge of recruitment and training. Throughout most of the 1960s he interviewed literally hundreds of potential recruits and travelled to the U.K and to the West Indies to do so, as well as interviewing Bermudian applicants for the Police Force. Oliver was the first Chairman of the Bermuda Police Association and was instrumental in pushing for the intermingling of all police officers, regardless of race, in a social setting at the Police Recreation Club. He was an avid cricket fan and would often turn out to support the Police Force cricket team.

In 1968 Oliver was promoted to Chief Superintendent, a position he held until his retirement from the Force on January 29th, 1972, after a career spanning over 33 years. During his illustrious service Oliver received numerous letters of good work and Commissioner’s Commendations for his expertise in solving serious crimes and in 1962, he was awarded the Police Long Service Medal, the Colonial Police Medal for Meritorious Service in 1968, and in 1971, he was awarded the Queen’s Police Medal for his Distinguished Service.

For more on Chief Superintendent Oliver Salsbury Winfield Trott QPM,CPM,LSM please go to http://expobermuda.com/index.php/latesthof/184-olivertrott.

February 16th 2021 - Today’s Black History Month Trailblazer: Deputy Commandant Ron-Michel Eugene Davis

Ron-Michel is a born Bermudian Officer and married to his wife Le'Shea. He has two sons ages 16 and 10 years old.

Ron-Michel joined the Bermuda Police Reserves in November 2001, and during his tenure has been posted to several key postings in the Bermuda Police Service. During his early years his leadership and strong work ethic was quite evident and resulted in him being identified as a future leader of the organization.

In June 2004, he was promoted to Reserve Sergeant and over the next ten years he continued to rise through the ranks. In March 2014, following a rigorous promotion process; he was promoted to his present rank of Deputy Commandant.

He has served for over 20 years and during his time, he has worked on several major investigation and has supported the Bermuda Police Service with achieving its priority goals and objectives.

Ron-Michel continues to coach, mentor and invest of his time to develop the officers under his charge. For his efforts he has been awarded several merit and appreciation awards and letters of good work.

In September 2014, he along with 24 other Reserves from Bermuda and Canada successfully completed a three-day workshop in St. Albert, Canada designed to coach law enforcement officers to success.

In addition to his Reserve volunteer duties as the Deputy Commandant, Ron-Michel is employed by the Government of Bermuda as a Compliance Manager in the Department of Immigration, having started his employ there in November 2009. He is presently the Acting Assistant Chief Immigration Officer.

We take this time to thank Ron-Michel for his years of dedicated service to his community and for his contribution to Making Bermuda Safer.

February 15th 2021 - Today's Black History Month Trailblazer: Former Commissioner Frederick C. B. “Penny” Bean

Commissioner Frederick C. B. “Penny” Bean, joined what was then the Bermuda Police Force in 1956 as a young constable, aged 19.  He rose through the ranks to become our first black Bermudian Commissioner of Police in 1981, a position he held until his retirement on 23 March 1990.

During his 34 years of service, Commissioner Bean earned the Colonial Police Medal for Meritorious Service, awarded to him after the Chief Justice commended him for disarming an armed robber. He also earned the Colonial Police Long Service Medal and the Queen’s Police Medal for Distinguished Service. During his time in the senior leadership of the police, Mr. Bean forged closer ties to the United Kingdom, the United States of America and the Canadian National Police Services. He also established a joint Bermuda Police and HM Customs Drug Importation Squad.

Commissioner Bean created the “Police Community Relations” programme and the first Bermuda Police Fraud Squad. He also improved the living quarters for single officers and enhanced our internal communications, by acquiring a sophisticated, secure, multichannel police radio system and Emergency 911 system, held within the combined Operations Centre at Prospect. Upon retirement, Commissioner Bean was named to the Order of the British Empire.

At his retirement, Commissioner Bean is quoted as saying “I have enjoyed every moment of it. I have no regrets, and if I had a choice to do it all over again, I would not hesitate. I hope my tour of service will serve as an inspiration to other young Bermudians coming along.”

Heartbreakingly, Commissioner Bean passed away suddenly on 8 December 2018. The passing of former Commissioner of Police Frederick “Penny” Bean OBE QPM represented a monumental loss for the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) and the local community at large. The funeral for Commissioner Bean was held at the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity on Church Street in the City of Hamilton at 2pm Monday, 17 December, 2018.

To pay honour and respect to the first black Bermudian Commissioner of Police, a number of tributes were organised within the BPS and publicly to celebrate his life and legacy and in September 2019,  the Commissioner of Police fittingly re-named the BPS Media Room, “COMMISSIONER FREDERICK C. B. “PENNY” BEAN Community Meeting and Media Room.”

We take this time to thank and acknowledge his significant contribution made to the BPS and the people of Bermuda.

February 12th 2021 - Today’s Black History Month Trailblazer: Station Duty Officer Linda Bogle-Mienzer

Linda Bogle-Mienzer is a Black Bermudian gay unionist. She joined the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) in June 1996, as a Station Duty Officer (SDO); a role she continues to perform.

In addition to her policing duties which includes her mentoring, coaching and training other SDOs, in 2009, Linda became the Chairperson of Division 7 Bermuda Public Service Union (BPSU) and in 2015, she was elected as 2nd Vice President, of the BPSU.

Linda’s involvement and love for her community are second to none and she is a key member of the BPS team, an organiser and the host of the popular Bermuda Police Service's Police Week Seniors' Tea event.

Linda is also a leader for social change and a long serving member of local community awareness groups CURB and Restorative Justice. Linda’s love for sports is another highlight of her career as in 2008, she Captained Bermuda’s First Female Cricket Team, in Women’s World Cup Qualifiers, held in South Africa.

A consummate professional in all of her endeavours, Linda’s contribution as a member of the BPS is commendable.

February 11th 2021 - Today’s Black History Month Trailblazer: Former Inspector Milton Marsh

Born in Nevis in 1910, and raised in St. Kitts where his father was a police officer it could be said that young Milton Murray Marsh had law enforcement in his blood but he never thought to join the police at that time.

When he was a young man his father came to work in Bermuda in Public Works and Milton decided to visit the Island himself where he met and married a young Bermudian, Miss Gwendolyn Williams, who was the daughter of Det. Sgt. J.J. Williams who worked alongside Bermuda’s first detective “D.O” Simons. Milton decided to stay in Bermuda and in June 1941 he joined the Bermuda Police at which time he was handed a worn out flashlight, a pair of handcuffs and a truncheon, and set off to walk the beat.

He was one of several West Indian policemen at that time, and many years later, when asked about his early days as a policeman he commented that because of his West Indian origin people would often refer to him as a “jigger foot”, and he encountered a lot of prejudice.

He became a detective working out of Somerset alongside the great Somerset duo of Mike (Cann) and Spike (Hazel), and later in Central CID alongside Vernon Jackson, Edward “Bosun” Swainson and “Chief” Oliver Trott. Whilst in CID he was promoted to Detective Sergeant, and during his career he received seven Commissioner’s Commendations for good work carrying out investigations. It is clear that Milton was a very dedicated and resourceful officer who greatly contributed to the efforts of the BPS in maintaining law and order throughout his service, and particularly whilst in CID. His dedication resulted in Milton being the first officer of West Indian origin to be promoted to Detective Inspector.

In 1963, Milton was awarded the Colonial Police Medal for Meritorious Service for “Valuable service characterised by resource and devotion to duty, including prolonged service marked by exceptional ability, merit and exemplary conduct”.  He retired from the BPS in1964, and went on to work for many years as a bailiff for the Courts, and as Head of Security at Castle Harbour Hotel.

Milton was 101 years of age, the oldest retired BPS officer when he was interviewed about his time in the BPS. He still had a twinkle in his eye when chatting about his days as a detective.  He passed away in December 2011 and at his funeral the BPS provided an Honour Guard and pallbearers, and his coffin was draped with the official Police flag.

You can read more about Milton in the Hall of Fame column on our ExPo website at http://expobermuda.com/~bermyxpo/index.php/tan/36-mmmarsh.

February 10th 2021 - Today’s Black History Month Trailblazer: Constable Dwayne Leverock

Constable Dwayne Leverock, more popularly known as “Sluggo”, joined the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) as a Cadet in March 1989. He has served in a host of different units within the BPS, including, the Police Task Force, Central Station Jailor, Prosecutions Department, Eastern and Central Patrol Divisions. He is currently posted as a Police Dispatcher in the Operations Centre, Prospect.

Constable Leverock is the recipient of Police Long Service Awards, as well as several letters of good work.

In addition to a successful policing career, Sluggo has also had an illustrious sporting career. His most recognized sporting feat date being that now world famous “Superman-like catch” in the 2007 Cricket World Cup, to remove Indian opening batsman Robin Uthappa.

An avid golfer, Sluggo boasts a 7 handicap. While representing the BPS, in 2017 and 2018, he won his group play matches at the famous Myrtle Beach Golf Club in Florida.

Sluggo was also a member of the Bermuda national football team and has represented several top local clubs, including, PHC Zebras, North Village Community Club and the Police team, Prospect United. He has represented the BPS in international soccer tournaments and was a part of the winning team in North American Police Soccer Championships, as well as the US Secret Service “Stop the Violence” Soccer Tournaments held in Washington DC.

A standout cricketer, Sluggo played for many years in the Annual Cup Match Classic, representing the Somerset Cricket Club, and remains 11th overall in terms of wickets taken in the classic with an impressive 44 wickets to his name.

At club level Sluggo enjoyed successful stints at, the “Mighty Flatts Victoria Club” where he was a coach/player and captain of their successful Eastern Counties Cup Team. His left arm orthodox spin has taken over 150 wickets in all formats of the game, and helped win major trophies with Police Recreation Club, Devonshire Recreation Club, Western Stars Sports Club and the Southampton Rangers Club.

Thank you Sluggo, for your dedication to country through sports, your commitment to service within your community, and contributions to "Making Bermuda Safe" as a member of the Bermuda Police Service.

February 9th 2021 - Today’s Black History Month Trailblazer: Former Deputy Commissioner Roseanda Young (Jones)

Roseanda Young joined Bermuda Police Force in May, 1978, as a member of Basic Training Course #23 and graduated having attained the “Baton of Honour” award, which is presented to the best all-round recruit. Throughout her career of spanning thirty years, she worked in several key departments, breaking glass ceilings along the way. She made her mark as the 1st female officer in Cycle Squad; 1st Female Officer in charge of the Community Media Relations; 1st Female to be named 2nd in charge of the Narcotics Division; 1st Female to head up the Intelligence and Special Branch Division; and the 1st Bermudian Female Officer to attend the FBI National Academy where she received her Certificate in Police Management. In addition, and through her training Roseanda created and maintains lifelong relationships with law enforcement agency colleagues from the FBI, DEA, Interpol and Bramshill to name a few. She made history again in December, 2005, when she became Bermuda’s first and only female to be promoted to the rank of Deputy Commissioner of Police. Mrs. Young remained in that position until her retirement in May, 2008. She is a recipient of Her Majesty the Queen's Certificate and Badge of Honour, Queen’s Long Service and Merit Award, 3 Commissioner’s Commendations and several Letters of Good Work.

Mrs. Young remains a part of the BPS family through her membership with the BPS Ex-Police Officers Association. She is also an active member of Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church and continues to live a happy and healthy lifestyle; and shortly after retirement, God made it possible for her to go on a 3-week missionary journey building houses in Haiti. Her leisure time is now spent golfing and travelling with her husband Lionel, or spending quality time with her children, grandchildren, siblings and other family members and friends.

We take this time to salute you for your contribution to public service and to your significant achievements within the Bermuda Police Service.

February 8th 2021 - Today’s Black History Month Trailblazer: Constable Tashun Simons

Constable Tashun Simons, a young Bermudian joined the Bermuda Police Service in September, 2019, at twenty-five years old. He presently works as a patrol officer in the Community Policing Division at the Hamilton Police Station.

In addition to his policing duties, Tashun has been a Referee with the Bermuda Football Association for the past six years and in 2018, became the youngest ever and the first Bermudian Football Official in more than a decade to be named on the FIFA International Referees List.

He remains on the FIFA International List and has served as a Referee Assistant at the Concacaf Nations League and Under-17 Championship.

In addition, he has assisted at an International friendly between the United States and Venezuela and a host of Olympic Games qualifiers, including Grenada, Cayman Islands and Haiti.

In December, 2020, Tashun was further rewarded having been officially named on the FIFA list for International Referees for 2021, as an Assistant Referee.

February 5th 2021 - Today's Black History Month Trailblazer: Former Deputy Commissioner William Maurice “Syke” Smith

William Maurice Smith, better known as “Syke” Smith was one of the most charismatic and popular members of the Bermuda Police.

Born in Pembroke in 1930, Syke attended Central School and Berkeley Institute where he excelled in his studies and was a Lieutenant in the Berkeley Cadet Corp. He clearly enjoyed wearing a uniform and he joined the Bermuda Police in January 1951 at the age of 21.

After a spell in Central Division (Hamilton) he transferred to Operations, and in March 1954 he was again transferred, this time to CID where he went on to be awarded 7 Commissioner’s Commendations for successfully investigating a variety of criminal cases including burglary, rape, breaking & entering, wounding and arson. He spent time in Eastern CID, before moving to Central CID where he was promoted to Sergeant in 1960. The following year he was chosen to attend Bramshill Police College and two years later he was promoted to Inspector and transferred to OIC Eastern CID.

Syke went on numerous overseas recruitment trips to both the U.K. and the West Indies, and there will be literally hundreds of young police officers who will remember being recruited by him.

During a spell as Supreme Court Officer, Syke regularly performed the duties of Black Rod for the ceremonial Opening of Parliament (he is believed to be the first officer of colour to perform this duty). He rose steadily through the ranks and in 1981 he was promoted to Deputy Commissioner. Happily married to his wife Norma they had five sons, and even while raising their family Syke continued with his academic studies and was actively involved in Heard Chapel AME Church, and was always involved in other community organisations.

Tragically, just 3 months after his promotion to Deputy Commissioner, Syke passed away suddenly on 15th June 1981, which was a great loss to his family, to the BPS and to the wider community. Throughout his police career Syke was always very popular due to his dedication and professional ability, his great sense of humour and his respect for people regardless of their class or colour. He was a true Trailblazer.

You can read more about William Maurice “Syke” Smith in the Hall of Fame on our ExPo website at:
http://expobermuda.com/index.php/latesthof/72-wssmith.

February 4th 2021 - Today’s Black History Month Trailblazer: Chaplin Dr. Kevin Santucci

Chaplain Kevin Santucci joined the Bermuda Police Service in April 2016, as a member of the Bermuda Police Service (BPS), Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Team. In January 2017, he became the official Chaplain for the BPS, a role he also performs for the Department of Corrections; and on an as needed basis for the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service, Immigration Department, Customs and the Bermuda Red Cross.

In 2012, Chaplain Santucci was appointed to serve as the first Chaplain for the City of Hamilton, becoming the first Bermudian to hold this position. In January 2021, Chaplain Santucci was nominated and awarded a Commissioner’s Commendation by Commissioner Corbishley, for his exemplary contribution to the Bermuda Police Service in the role as Service Chaplain and as a member of the Critical Stress Management Team.

February 2nd 2021 - Today's Black History Month Trailblazer: Constable Zoenique Williams

Zoenique is a Bermudian and mother of her 11-year-old son Andrew, joined the Bermuda Police Service in September 2005. Since joining she has worked in several key Units of the Service and is presently a member of the Narcotics Department.

Zoenique also holds the distinction in December 2020, becoming the first female officer of the BPS, to become a member of our Elite and highly trained firearms Emergency Response Team as well as one of the first female Close Protection officers. She is a BPS advance driver and motorcycle rider. In addition to her police duties and specialist training she is a devoted fitness lover and an Elite cyclist. She was the winner in the 2014, Heritage Day Sinclair Packwood Memorial Cycle race and later that year was crowned Bermuda Bicycle Associations Female Rider of the Year. She was also the winner of 2015 Heritage Day Sinclair Packwood Memorial Cycle race, when it first debuted leaving St. George's.

In 2013 and 2014, she won silver medals in the Women’s Road Races at the Elite Caribbean Cycling Championships in Curacao and Puerto Rico. She effectively secured Bermuda a spot at the Central American Championships and Pan American Games. Zoenique, has also represented Bermuda in the Central American Championships in Veracruz, Mexico. She went to the NatWest Games in Jersey in 2015 where later that year Bermuda Bicycle Association crowned the Women’s team Female Cyclists of the year. In 2015 PanAm Games the 82.5 kilometres women’s road race, held in Milton, Ontario.  Zoenique also attended the 2017 NatWest Island Games held in Gotland, Sweden where she secured silver medals in the Road race as well as the Criterium, and then the team securing a Gold medal.

In 2018, she was selected as Chef de Mission to led Bermuda’s National Athletes at the Youth Olympics, held in Buenos Aries. Thank you for your contribution to Making Bermuda Safe and for your dedication to sports in Bermuda.

February 1st 2021 - Black History Month is an annual observance originating in the United States, where it is also known as African-American History Month. It is the brainchild of noted historian Carter G. Woodson and other prominent African Americans, and since 1976, every U.S. president has officially designated the month of February as Black History Month. Other countries around the world, including Bermuda, Canada, Amsterdam and the United Kingdom, also devote a month to celebrating Black History.

With February being dedicated as Black History Month; Commissioner Corbishley has directed that the Bermuda Police Service (BPS) will highlight and honour the triumphs of Trailblazing Black Officers throughout BPS history, including some of their artistic, cultural or work achievements.

To this end starting on Monday, 1 February, 2021, the Bermuda Police Service via our Media Relations Office will be emailing (internally) and posting on all of our social medial sites “brief bios” of the highlights and achievements of some of our past and present black officers. This will be by no means be the only contributions of these and/or other significant roles played by black officers over the history of the Bermuda Police Service. We hope you take the opportunity to look and learn as we write about professional and personal  exploits of our colleagues experiences and the efforts they have made within the BPS, and to the history of Bermuda. Our first Trailblazer is;

Superintendent Na’imah Astwood (nee Williams)

Superintendent Na’imah Astwood joined the Bermuda Police Service as a Cadet in 1994. She holds many firsts as a black female officer within Bermuda Police Service. A ceremonial milestone was achieved when she became the first female officer during the November, 2010, Throne Speech to serve as the (Black Rod) Usher for Politicians at the Convening of Parliament. Throughout her career Superintendent Astwood has upheld her faith as a Muslim and in 2009, completed her pilgrimage to Mecca. She is active in her Islamic Community and is proud to represent her faith as the Superintendent of Community Policing Division.