He said that he also had to attend two funerals for fellow police officers who died tragically and another 2 who died of natural causes. These too he said, weighed heavily on him, from a personal standpoint, while in office.
Williams’ son Laustin Jamie Williams, who was only 27 years old was brutally shot and killed, while relaxing with friends in Buckley’s, on 6th April, 2011. Jamie became the seventh murder victim, of the 27 homicides recorded so far for 2011; gunned down in what has been considered part of the on-going gang violence in the country.
“Every day I wake up to secure the nation and the very moment tragedy hit my home, the feeling of negative emotions overruled me. I am grateful for the many persons who counselled and assisted me in those times and are still assisting me today,” said the former Commissioner of Police, (COP).
While making his farewell speech at a Baton Passing ceremony on Wednesday afternoon, (31st August, 2011), at Warner Park, Mr. Williams said “This is the beginning of the end, the end of a long standing career as a public servant.” It lasted some 30 years.
He explained how much of an honour it was, for him to lead the fine men and women, who supported him and served bravely and with excellence under his command.
Mr. Williams added that he is proud that he is able to leave with his professional integrity still intact, the professional integrity that has been shaped by the professional values and morals of the organisation.
“Commissioner of Police is not the easiest job in town, especially in these trying times,” said the former COP.
Mr. Williams went on to quote Minister Sam Condor when he said, “We don’t write our script, it is already written, we have to take the hand that is for us”.
The Nevisian born and former member of the Defence Force said that the position of Commissioner of Police, is a position that comes with public scrutiny, controversy and a peace offering obsession, and that’s the reason why he was able to manage his force successfully.
“The loss of my son was the ultimate law enforcement sacrifice I ever had” said Mr Williams.
Mr Williams said “,… the federation does not have a perfect police force, and one cannot be found anywhere around the world, however I am convinced that we have a good police force”
He added by saying that he is certain that the new Commissioner, in a matter of months, will take back the streets and rid the country of ‘gangsterism’.
“I had the opportunity to interact with Mr C G. Walwyn, and there is no doubt that he has more than what it takes to confront these challenges head on” said Williams.
“The force is going to be in good hands” Mr Williams said.
Williams ended by saying “It is now time to pass the baton, and I am looking forward to a stress-free retirement.”
He expressed thanks to the members of the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force for their dedication and support.