BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Jul 4, CMC – Barbados’ first female Commissioner of Police, Sonia Boyce, has pledged sweeping reforms aimed at strengthening accountability, modernising policing and rebuilding public trust after being sworn in on Friday at State House.
Boyce, who joined the then Royal Barbados Police Force (now The Barbados Police Service) on April 21, 1986, was sworn in before Acting President, The Very Reverend Dr Jeffrey Gibson, as Prime Minister Mia Mottley, senior government officials and members of the security services witnessed the historic occasion.
Addressing the ceremony, the police chief said she accepted the post with a clear understanding of the responsibility it carries.
“I am grateful for the confidence shown in me through this appointment, and I accept the responsibility with a clear understanding that public trust must be earned every day,” she said.
“I am also mindful that this appointment carries historic significance,” she said. “If this moment encourages more women and young people to see public service, policing and leadership as places where they belong, then it will have meaning beyond this ceremony. Still, the work ahead must be measured not by symbolism alone, but by integrity, competence, fairness and results.”
Outlining her priorities, Boyce said her focus would include safer communities, stronger investigations, greater visibility, improved communication, better use of intelligence and technology, and closer collaboration with citizens and international partners.
She acknowledged public concern over crime and pledged a firm but accountable response.
“We will be firm where firmness is required, fair in how we exercise authority, and transparent wherever the law and the integrity of investigations permit,” she said.
Boyce said professionalism, accountability and respect would guide her leadership, adding that attention would also be placed on officer welfare, training, internal communication and morale.
She also appealed for greater public cooperation with law enforcement, noting that “policing is most effective when trust moves in both directions”.
On communication, Boyce said her administration would prioritise accuracy while managing sensitive information responsibly.
“This is a moment for steady service, not self-congratulation; for action, not noise; and for partnership, not division,” she said, adding that she looked forward to working with government, police personnel, communities and stakeholders “in service of a safer, more confident Barbados.”
Boyce also paid tribute to outgoing Police Commissioner Richard Boyce, saying the transition underscored the institutional strength of the service.
She said the organisation was “larger than any one person” and built on “discipline, sacrifice, courage and the daily commitment of officers and civilian staff”.
Following the ceremony, Boyce proceeded to Police Headquarters, where she formally assumed command of the Barbados Police Service.
The Barbados Police Service also paid tribute to outgoing Commissioner Richard Boyce, thanking him for his “dedicated leadership and distinguished service to Barbados.”
CMC/ed/2026