Who will be the next Commissioner of Police? That question now looms over the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force as Deputy Commissioner Ronald Phillip steps into the role in an acting capacity while a final decision is made on the force’s leadership.
Police Commissioner Verne Garde’s contract ended this month (March). Garde, who had been serving in an acting capacity, was granted a one-year extension in March 2025 after initially serving a six-month stint in the position.
Speaking at Monday’s pre-Cabinet press briefing, Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre confirmed that Philip will act in the role of Commissioner for the time being, with a new appointment expected soon.
Pierre said a new police chief “will be in place” between April 1 and April 15.
Garde’s tenure saw several notable developments within the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, including the largest seizure of illegal firearms and ammunition in the nation’s recorded history. According to the latest available crime statistics, the period January to October 2025 also recorded an 18% reduction in overall crime compared to the same period in 2024.
Earlier this year, Garde also presented a “127 Steps to Order” operational plan to the Prime Minister, outlining strategies to tackle crime across the island.
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