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Friday, April 11, 2025

CHOISEUL SHINES BRIGHT: MÈT BONDA YO!

In the peaceful and picturesque southwestern district of St. Lucia, the communities of Choiseul are buzzing with pride after two of their own were promoted to the prestigious rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) in the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force. Luke Defreitas, from La Pointe, and Albert Charlery, from Bellevue, have both been recognized for their exceptional dedication, leadership, and tireless efforts within the force.

As Choiseul continues to be known for its serene landscapes and tight-knit community, it now has another reason to be proud—its homegrown law enforcement officers, who have reached the pinnacle of their careers. These promotions not only signify personal achievements but also reflect the dedication of the Choiseul community in supporting its own.

ACP Luke Defreitas: A Humble Reflection of Success

In an exclusive interview with the St. Lucia Times, ACP Luke Defreitas shared his gratitude for the unwavering support that has helped him reach this milestone in his career. “Though it is a significant personal achievement for me, I think it signifies a lot more,” Defreitas expressed humbly. “At my level, without the support of the persons I supervise and work alongside, promotions like this are not easy.”

He also highlighted the role of his colleagues, especially Commissioner of Police Vern Garde, in his journey. ACP Defreitas acknowledged the critical importance of public cooperation in crime reduction, as he spoke about the continuing challenges facing the police force. With 14 homicides recorded this year, many still under investigation, and road safety concerns growing due to recent fatalities, Defreitas stressed the ongoing need for collaboration between the police and the public.

“We are seeing some progress,” Defreitas noted, “and we continue to ask the public to work with us in partnership to make Saint Lucia a safer jurisdiction for everybody.”

ACP Albert Charlery: A Commitment to Public Safety

For ACP Albert Charlery, his promotion is not only a professional milestone but also a deeply personal one. “This is a proud moment for me,” he said, reflecting on the recognition he has received. Charlery, who hails from the vibrant community of Bellevue, thanked his family, the public, and his fellow officers for their continued support throughout his career.

He expressed his commitment to public safety, highlighting the challenges the police force faces, especially in terms of resources and mobility. Despite these obstacles, Charlery assured the public that morale remains high within the force. “We’re very concerned about ensuring the people remain safe throughout the length and breadth of this country,” he affirmed.

A Stronger, Safer Choiseul

The promotions of ACP Defreitas and ACP Charlery are a testament to the hardworking spirit of Choiseul’s people and the value they place on public service. These officers are proud representatives of their communities—La Pointe and Bellevue—and their elevation within the police force not only enhances the leadership within the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force but also strengthens the safety and well-being of the entire country.

As both ACPs continue to lead with dedication, their focus remains on improving public safety and reducing crime, working tirelessly to build a safer and more secure St. Lucia for everyone. These promotions serve as a reminder of the importance of community support in every achievement, particularly in the peaceful, resilient communities of Choiseul.

1 comment:

Keithson Charles said...

Dedan indeed it is a proud moment. These gentlemen continue to lead with distinction, now serving as role models for the younger ones within our beloved community. There are several promising officers from the community serving our nation and I am sure this strengthens them. We are a value oriented people and Choiseul shines in several areas; education, sports, craft, entrepreneurship, to name some. Just walk into a government office and you are bound to find one of ours doing magnificently; kudos to our strong and resilient parents, grandparents, teachers and wider community. There is so much talent within our people just needing the enabling environment to shine and thrive. Dedan I applaud you for keeping our success in focus..i will visit you soon comrade. Keep at it!