July 29, 2006 – The St. Croix Police Department increased its ranks by 15 officers who participated in a graduation ceremony at the St. Joseph's Church Hospitality Center on Friday. Included in the class were two lottery enforcement officers.
The group completed six months of intensive training in patrol procedures, traffic investigation, defense tactics, report writing, forensic science, first aid training, local law, police rules and regulations, as well as extensive physical fitness training.
As the graduates of the Class of 2006-1 filed into the center, marching in step, eagerness and pride was evident on their faces. They chose the slogan "One Mind One Beat" as their class motto. Friends and family who came to witness the special occasion filled every seat in the room and stood in the aisles to witness the momentous occasion.
The graduates, in their new police uniforms and shiny badges, were attentive as they listened to police officials and other dignitaries offer words of wisdom to sustain and motivate them during their career.
Police Commissioner Elton Lewis cautioned the new officers to uphold the laws of the territory and not use their new status to intimidate others. Lewis told the recruits, "Your gun and badge was not given to you for personal gain," and at this milestone in their career they have taken on an "awesome responsibility."
"Your actions must be beyond reproach," Lewis said. "Engaging in corruption or domestic violence will end your career."
"Remain true to yourself and make your community proud," guest speaker U.S. Attorney Anthony Jenkins told the graduates. Jenkins also cautioned the graduates against engaging in corruption. He told them they were in a unique position in their careers because they have never been offered a bribe, or were in a position to fabricate evidence to make an arrest.
He told the officers a story to emphasize that one should not risk their reputation by taking any type of bribe or compromising their integrity.
Police spokesman Sgt. Thomas Hannah told the class that they also need to take care of their wellbeing. He told them to continue their physical fitness training and to see a professional if they have a health issue. "You are trim, fit, strong and vibrant," Hannah told the group. "Make sure to take care of your health."
Sen. Pedro Encarnacion, chairman of the Public Safety, Homeland Security and Justice Committee, told the class to carry out their assignments with the highest standards. "Perform your duties with pride and excellence and execute your duties with pride dignity and respect."
Natasha Renaud was elected by her fellow recruits as class spokesperson. "We are now ready to serve and protect," said Renaud as she addressed her classmates. She told the class they must be ready to do whatever is necessary in the line of duty.
Several recruits received special recognition for their performance during training.
David Stevens Jr. and Natasha Renaud received the male and female physical fitness award respectively; Jose Ramos received the academics award; and Saladine Williams received both the firearms award and the Commissioner's Award for most well-rounded recruit.
The members of the graduating class include police recruits Daniel Archibald, Jamale Griffin, Cassandra Jhero, Clement McKnight, Julio Mendez, Miguel Osorio Jr., Tabia Pennyfeather, Jose Ramos, Natasha Renaud, Ismael Robles, Samantha Simmonds, David Stevens Jr., Jason Viveros, Kenny Williams and Saladine Williams. Luis Osorio and Antonio Setorie graduated as Lottery Enforcement Officers.
Lewis said testing dates for the next academy class are expected to be announced soon.
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