The constable, a recruit from the Commonwealth of Dominica, was awarded the top prize from a field of nine other officers from various units within the Division (District ‘C’). They had been nominated by their superiors for the position at the annual awards.
The event was hosted by the Strategic Planning Group of the Nevis Division, under the chairmanship of Inspector Andre Mitchell on 15th February at the Occasions Conference Centre at Pinneys.
In his response Constable Browne said he was privileged and honoured on his selection as best Constable of the year 2010 and thanked his family and friends who encouraged him in his young policing career.
“I would like to thank Corporal Michael Hobson for having the confidence in me and nominating me for this prestigious award, also Inspector Mitchell who has been pushing me to do better in my short comings and can count on me anytime. To Sergeant Bertie for teaching me and advising me about presentation of case files and for whatever assistance you’ve provided. I know I will be a better Police Officer in the Division.
“I must give thanks to the Police Strategic Group and the Nevis Island Administration for its continued support and making tonight possible. My fellow officers I thank you for giving me the support and motivation to do the best and also to be the best I can be. We know fellow officers, that this not a competition but recognition of our hard work, dedication and commitment in trying to prevent criminal activities in St. Kitts and Nevis,” he said.
Constable Browne acknowledged that though they all had shortcomings it should not be their downfall but a learning experience.
He recognised Inspector Brandy’s leadership as excellent and a role model of that a police officer should be. He described his superior as one who always showed concern for what went on in the working environment.
The Top Constable pledged to give his continued dedication to duty as he urged the community’s support in the fight against crime.
“I will continue to work hard and I always do and do it to the best of my ability. To my colleagues, I encourage you to do the best that you can do and don’t let tonight deter you from performing your duties that are expected of you.
“One hand cannot clap. It takes two to make sweet sound and with more hands joining together the more powerful the sound would be. What I am trying to say [is] we the members of the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force cannot prevent or detect all the crimes on our own. We need the help of the community and with your assistance; we the Police would be able to achieve more. As the saying goes ‘Together everyone achieves more’. This will enable our theme ‘Safer Communities through Partnership’,” he said.
In conclusion, he thanked Sergeant Hazel, who he said taught him the traffic rules and laws since he was posted at the Traffic Department. He said he was aware however that there was much more to be learnt and did not hesitate to remind motorists to wear their seat belts. “Do wear your seatbelts and buckle up you are expected home,” he said.
The other nominated awardees were Woman Police Constables Shauna Pemberton, Coretta Harris, and Julia Smithen and Constables Leon Michael, Jevern Weekes, Devon Jones, Lynchard Charles and Rohan La Borde