In furtherance of accomplishing the crime and security mandate of the Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) and, to enhance the preparation and investigation of casefiles, Commissioner of Police, Mr. Colin John has established the Legal Research and Policy Unit (LRPU).
The Commissioner of Police explained that the organization's decision to create the Unit, is geared towards improving the service offered to the people of St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the swift execution of justice. He went on to say that, the Unit, which is based at the Central Police Station will be the main liaison between the RSVGPF and the Office of the Director of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP).
The Unit is under the Command of the Assistant Commissioner of Police in-charge of Crimes, Mr. Richard Browne and managed by Assistant Superintendent of Police, Mr. John Ballah, a trained lawyer, Barrister and Solicitor in the State of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
The mission of the LRPU is to provide an unwavering commitment to excellence and development of the RSVGPF through integrity, professional legal analysis, research, training and vetting policies.
The Unit has several goal which includes but is not limited to:
- Develop and enhance case file preparation and investigation.
- Reduce the timeline of casefiles readiness for trials.
- Ensure casefiles are properly prepared before going to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP’s) Office.
- Partner with the Office of the DPP to reduce the back log of legal analysis, recommendations and opinions on complex matters due for trial.
- Partner with the Training Officer and other law enforcement partners to provide training and workshops for law enforcement officers.
- Create and vet policies for the development of the RSVGPF as mandated by the Commissioner of Police.
- Ensure that the policies and practices of the RSVGPF are lawful and are fairly applied.
- Assist law enforcement entities on legal matters by interpreting the enforcement of Local, Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and International treaties and laws.
- Highlight legislative developments that may be vital to the development of The RSVGPF, the public’s safety and the advancement of their quality of life.