- 2 years ago
Category
🗞
NewsTranscript
00:00:00Parents, strongly caution, this program contains some material that is unsuitable for young
00:00:13children.
00:00:43Beyond the Tape will be back after these messages.
00:01:13Beyond the Tape will be back after these messages.
00:01:43Beyond the Tape will be back after these messages.
00:01:48Beyond the Tape will be back after these messages.
00:01:53Beyond the Tape will be back after these messages.
00:01:58Beyond the Tape will be back after these messages.
00:02:03Beyond the Tape will be back after these messages.
00:02:08Beyond the Tape
00:02:38for 2025 and seeing that they're receiving items that could assist or even aid them with
00:02:44the fight against crime.
00:02:45Also today, we'll be discussing more on domestic violence and how the TTPS is treating with
00:02:51it.
00:02:52And today, we'd like to welcome no stranger to the show, representing the TTPS for the
00:02:56Western Division, ASP Russell is here with us this afternoon and we'd like to welcome
00:03:01you.
00:03:02Sir, how are you?
00:03:03I am okay.
00:03:04I just want to say pleasant good afternoon to China and Tobago.
00:03:07It's a pleasure for me being here and before we even start, let me say congratulations
00:03:12to the batch of 1998, 1st of October, 1998, we made 26 years service today.
00:03:21So I want to congratulate all my batches.
00:03:23So you're drinking from the fountain of youth, the entire batch, or is it just you as the
00:03:28mascot leading?
00:03:29I don't want to get too ahead of myself, I would say the entire batch.
00:03:33The entire batch.
00:03:34Okay, well, congratulations.
00:03:36Thank you very much.
00:03:37And time that you're putting in, not just to the service, but also within the country
00:03:40as well.
00:03:41Thank you very much.
00:03:42We appreciate that.
00:03:43So let's dive straight into it.
00:03:45And I'm sure you paid attention to what took place in the budget, especially with national
00:03:51security and the allocations of monies that was allocated to the different services within
00:03:57the security realm.
00:03:59And the TTPS is now going to receive the period of 2025 to 2027, starting with the
00:04:05first batch, as we say, that is going to be released as 500 vehicles in the first phase
00:04:10of the distribution of the 2000 vehicles that they extend to or expect to put out there
00:04:18to assist the officers.
00:04:21What are your thoughts?
00:04:22Well, I am elated to hear that.
00:04:26I think it is very important for the services that we render in Trinidad and Tobago Police
00:04:29Service because when you call for service, you want a response.
00:04:33And when you look at policing for the people, that is Sir Robert Peel, his Peelian principles
00:04:40talk about competency, response and responsiveness.
00:04:44When we look at things like from the violent crime plan, such as precision, precision policing
00:04:50of the power field, vehicles are very, very important.
00:04:53It's a very important tool.
00:04:55And we have implemented robust systems to ensure that our vehicles are treated in a
00:05:03manner where they would last longer.
00:05:05I know that's one of the issues of the public.
00:05:08Listen.
00:05:09Because I'm watching you.
00:05:10I want to know which direction you're going because I want to know what's happening with
00:05:14the vehicles that we have been seeing all over the country that is just there watching
00:05:17us.
00:05:18Well, listen, you know, we have implemented something where we say khaki must lead.
00:05:22So you have people like the Russells and the Pitts and in the Western Division, the Grants
00:05:27and the Bassants and the ASP Lynch and the senior super Henry and Mr. Williams.
00:05:32We would make sure that our vehicles are treated in a particular manner.
00:05:37We would ensure that because we know the public, when the public call the police, the public
00:05:41want a response and we're not taking response lightly.
00:05:44And these additional vehicles would not only have a better response, but it allows us to
00:05:50be more places at a time.
00:05:52So it's a big fight in increasing the presence and the visibility of the police, which is
00:05:57something we have.
00:05:58One of our objectives of objectives in the violent crime reduction plan as well as in
00:06:04our operational plan 2024.
00:06:07But the vehicles that we are seeing that are just there, they're damaged, they're not able
00:06:11to be used.
00:06:12What are you all doing with it?
00:06:13Is it that you're selling parts, selling all the parts that could assist in maybe aid to
00:06:17get more equipment?
00:06:19Well, what happens is the vehicles are eventually auctioned off.
00:06:23What could be repaired will be repaired.
00:06:25And outside of that, we do auction off the vehicles and then the civilians may buy it,
00:06:32garages may buy it and they may scrap it for parts or some of them, they might be able
00:06:37to put out the necessary funds to get the vehicle roadworthy once again.
00:06:42But you know, we welcome new vehicles all the time.
00:06:47Who doesn't?
00:06:48I would love to get a new vehicle right now.
00:06:49You know how hard it is to get a new vehicle?
00:06:51Every time I see a police vehicle, it's PE, it's PEG, it's PED, it's the PEs in the mix.
00:06:58I would love to have a new vehicle.
00:06:59And that's the difference between the civilian vehicle and the police vehicles.
00:07:03Because when you finish work, you go home and you pack up, but policing is 24 hours.
00:07:08It never stops.
00:07:09So those vehicles are on constant patrols, constant rotation.
00:07:13So of course, the wear and tear would be much more than a regular passenger vehicle
00:07:18that you would utilize or I might utilize in my personal capacity.
00:07:22Do you know who services those vehicles by chance?
00:07:25I think right now, we are contracted to the vehicle maintenance company, that's Vemcot,
00:07:33right up there on the B-term.
00:07:36And there have been instances where outside garages may have assisted when the work becomes
00:07:41overwhelming.
00:07:43Because I know it's a lot, honestly, to be on the road 24-7.
00:07:46Another thing that I also saw that they were mentioning in a conversation we always have
00:07:50on the show all the time is the body cams.
00:07:53But they said additional body cams.
00:07:56So the ones that were already purchased, are they working?
00:07:59Yes, you know, the body cams are working.
00:08:03In our operational plan, we talk about 20% increase in the wearing of body cam.
00:08:08And it's a mandate.
00:08:09As supervisors and managers in these divisions, we ensure that persons use their body cam.
00:08:15What you tend to find happening, notwithstanding there may be a pushback at some times, we
00:08:21have to give the instructions to ensure that the body cams are worn in the correct manner.
00:08:26And without training, nothing is possible.
00:08:30So what I try to explain to my subordinates is that the benefits.
00:08:35Too many times we look at the negatives and allow the negatives to really form that basis
00:08:40of emphasis in the opinions that we may make from time to time.
00:08:43But what I show them is that, listen, having worked in complaints for more than 12 years,
00:08:50when it comes to building public trust and legitimacy, that body cam is your friend.
00:08:56Because you know, when the public make these allegations, they won't realize a lot of the
00:09:00videos only start when the police do something.
00:09:03This is our opportunity to capture what the public do to cause a reaction.
00:09:08So it's something I am for.
00:09:10It's something that I push for.
00:09:12And yes, the addition of more is welcome along with other equipments because we know bulletproof
00:09:17vests are on the way.
00:09:18Yes, our deputy commissioner, Mr. Benjamin, he visited our division recently and he told
00:09:24us, listen, things are in train to make the service a better place.
00:09:29So we get vehicles, we get more body cams.
00:09:32We will get more bulletproof vests.
00:09:36And it's in the procurement stage at this point in time.
00:09:38Of course, the change in the procurement legislation would have caused its own hiccups.
00:09:43But I understand the government needed to do things to put things in the proper, you
00:09:47know, to avoid the difference.
00:09:48Let's hope.
00:09:49Yeah.
00:09:50Let's hope that we could see swift movement when it comes to you getting the equipment
00:09:54as quickly as possible, because the criminal element is not waiting until you get the body
00:09:58cams and the bulletproof vests.
00:09:59And that's something I think you shouldn't have said out there, meaning the bulletproof
00:10:04vests, because I don't want them just shooting crazy at your thinking that you'll have effective
00:10:09bulletproof vests.
00:10:10Well, like I said earlier, it's about training.
00:10:12We are trained and I stand before you today and I say that my officers are trained, ready
00:10:18and willing to engage at any time in keeping with our use of force policy.
00:10:24Of course.
00:10:25Yeah.
00:10:26We go to lethal commands and then we go to non-lethal weapons.
00:10:28But if we are greeted by the lethal weapons, we will respond in a manner.
00:10:34Equal force.
00:10:35Of course.
00:10:36At this time, let's take a look at what made today's headlines.
00:11:26Now, remember, when we stated persons were saying how TINT is going to assist in crime
00:11:40fighting and TINT is not going to stop anything.
00:11:44But you can't see what is in a vehicle if it's heavily tinted.
00:11:47With that being said, we head straight to a video where an incident happened in the
00:11:52area where you will see law abiding citizens trying their best to do their daily routines.
00:12:00But how important is it for all of us to be vigilant regardless where we are?
00:12:05And you think it may be a safe space because of the location.
00:12:11As you can see here, what's happening?
00:12:15The vehicle of choice.
00:12:17Yep.
00:12:18Yep.
00:12:19Whitney, when you look at that video, wow.
00:12:32Very disturbing.
00:12:33Yes, it is.
00:12:36And my thinking, apart from being vigilant, I mean, people are saying, oh, Mar-a-Lago
00:12:42has traffic.
00:12:43I mean, look at the time.
00:12:44It's not at the time where it's peak time of traffic.
00:12:47But there's security there.
00:12:49Security guards.
00:12:50And to me, when you go on a compound and you have security that is there, yes, you're expecting
00:12:55the customers to also pay attention.
00:12:58You can't just see a car park up there.
00:12:59No one came out of the vehicle.
00:13:01They just remain there.
00:13:02And that doesn't raise an alarm.
00:13:03So what are you paying for security for?
00:13:06Well, Whitney, what I want to say about security is that security is like...
00:13:13You get what you pay for.
00:13:14Yeah?
00:13:15Because in this time, a lot of institutions still may not have the budget to afford a
00:13:22firearm officer because the resources that they come with, it goes by tiers.
00:13:28So whether you want a canine officer or a firearm officer, it's a difference.
00:13:32Or a baton officer.
00:13:33It's a difference in budget, right?
00:13:35So people put these things, you know, yes, we have security.
00:13:39But how effective is your security?
00:13:42And in addition to which, if I am an unarmed security, knowing the type of vehicles that
00:13:46these criminals are moving around and seeing a heavily tainted one, I would want to discourage
00:13:51them from approaching it.
00:13:52But you could call 999.
00:13:54You could call the station.
00:13:56Let us come and deal with it.
00:13:57We don't want to put yourself in harm's way.
00:14:00And if you look at the video, his back was turned.
00:14:04So you know, a lot of persons out there, we want a FUL, we want a FUL, we want a FUL.
00:14:08And someone was also in the car before he came to the vehicle.
00:14:11So that could have been a position where he could have lost a firearm also.
00:14:16Because his back was turned.
00:14:17I mean, he is not expecting that.
00:14:20Yeah.
00:14:21And what would you say for persons who are in the vehicle, like what went on there?
00:14:26Someone was already in the vehicle and clearly it seems like the car was running because
00:14:30the person was in the vehicle.
00:14:32How could we protect ourselves when someone who is a driver is no longer in the car, but
00:14:37the car is?
00:14:38Well, what I would advise is that you keep all doors locked.
00:14:42In addition to which, and the area looks fairly lighted.
00:14:47What I can say, park in an area even more light.
00:14:50I mean, the thing about it is we have to be, we have to protect ourselves first.
00:14:55Yeah.
00:14:56And even in that situation, it's so unique that they wait until you open the door.
00:15:01Correct.
00:15:02So the timing was impeccable.
00:15:05When you looked at how it was well orchestrated, it was well thought out.
00:15:08Because probably, let me say the door was locked.
00:15:10You know, the key inside it, they may have pointed whatever weapon they had at the person
00:15:13and then shock them to open the door, but they waited until he opened the door.
00:15:17So they already had full access to the vehicle.
00:15:21What I'm happy about is that he kept his life.
00:15:24He was unharmed.
00:15:25And the Trinidad and Tobago police service will find the vehicle.
00:15:29We will bring those perpetrators to justice.
00:15:31That's the confidence I have in my organization.
00:15:33Yes.
00:15:34I hope you do because this is something where you don't know you're going for your medication
00:15:38or you forgot somebody need to run in to a business establishment at that time, thinking
00:15:43that the area again is safe.
00:15:45No area is safe.
00:15:46I say this over and over again.
00:15:48You just don't know who is wrong in what vehicle and pay attention.
00:15:53The tint.
00:15:54That's the first red flag.
00:15:56That is the first red flag.
00:15:57No, I mean, since you will tint and persons having the conversation about it, any car
00:16:03has to be tinted.
00:16:04I paint.
00:16:05I'm like, why are you having the tint like this?
00:16:08I don't know if it's officers.
00:16:09I don't know.
00:16:10But I'm just saying.
00:16:11And the thing about the tint is, you know, we have to be able to manage ourselves because
00:16:17everybody wants that tint from the higher echelons, to the officers, to the civilians.
00:16:24And it's becoming a, you have it.
00:16:28So why I cannot have it?
00:16:29So I would encourage us to be exemplars, especially as servicemen and operate within
00:16:37the ambits of the law.
00:16:39I mean, I myself have some things to look at on my vehicle and I intend to do so in
00:16:45the near future.
00:16:46You know, but we, yeah, I want us to be that leader because the public eyes are always
00:16:52on us.
00:16:53You know, in that situation and maybe others, persons who are parked in a place that they
00:16:58know they are comfortable.
00:17:01If those vehicles, that or that vehicle in particular, other vehicles weren't as tinted,
00:17:06you could have been, you know, way to go.
00:17:09It's very rare.
00:17:10I'm sorry to see four men sitting in our car.
00:17:13Definitely.
00:17:14It is strange.
00:17:15Definitely.
00:17:16Most of the times the driver and the bedroom will be on the front seat.
00:17:19If we push in three, that's a big, like a huge, huge maybe.
00:17:24But from the time you see more than two men in a vehicle, your alarm is supposed to trigger
00:17:28or even just two, the driver and the person in the passenger side, your antenna is supposed
00:17:36to be going wild.
00:17:39Remember too, Mrs. Burns, when you, as officers, we have a certain level of training, but not
00:17:46withstanding how much we ask persons to be vigilant, you still find people getting ripped
00:17:51off from Facebook market page and a lot of persons are out there thinking, it wouldn't
00:17:58happen to me still, despite what is going on, a lot of persons are thinking that it
00:18:03wouldn't happen to them.
00:18:05So what we could always do is continue to encourage you to be vigilant.
00:18:09And I mean, in that case, I would have asked myself, what would I have done in that case?
00:18:14Because his back was turned to the guys.
00:18:16He may have seen the car there, the camera, not to raise an alarm.
00:18:20Of course, you don't really hear the engine running, so you wouldn't know, it's a hybrid.
00:18:28So you're not sure, you know, and they may have had the car off, maybe sitting and just
00:18:35waiting for him to come.
00:18:36And you may have found that the vehicle is idling and somebody's inside there.
00:18:39Because if you're going to stay long, what we will do, switch off the vehicle, correct.
00:18:43Or going with the person, but he may have found the person is sitting in that vehicle
00:18:47and the vehicle is idling.
00:18:48Which gives them the opportunity to do their analysis and say, this person coming back
00:18:53just now.
00:18:54We could wait.
00:18:55Yeah.
00:18:56Simple.
00:18:57Yeah.
00:18:58Because the other person who you saw leaving their vehicle, they went inside and it wasn't
00:19:03like they would focus on that individual.
00:19:06So as citizens out there, I mean, it's really sad to see what transpired.
00:19:10I hope the persons find some sort of peace after this.
00:19:14But as ASP said, you still have your life, which is most important, and the TTPS is not
00:19:20going to stop until they find that vehicle and the suspects behind doing what they did
00:19:25there.
00:19:26And again, we ask and plead to the public, continue making yourself a hard target because
00:19:31this is the only way you could protect yourself.
00:19:33The officers can be there every single day, 24 seven.
00:19:36I always say they're not Avengers.
00:19:38We take a break.
00:19:39We'll be back.
00:19:45Make the right choice in eyewear at Seaview Optical.
00:19:47Get complete single vision lenses with frames for $2.99.
00:19:50Single vision lenses with transition and designer frames $8.99.
00:19:54And get your progressive transitions with designer frames for $14.99.
00:19:57At Seaview Optical, affordable eyewear for everyone.
00:20:01Join us for Echoes of the Black Stalin Classic Concert, an unforgettable evening celebrating
00:20:06the life, legacy, and legend of the iconic Leroy Caliste, the Black Stalin.
00:20:10This special tribute concert will feature Ras Aili and Mighty Gabi from Barbados, Ajamu
00:20:16from Grenada, Machel Montano, Kevin Caliste, Brother Valentino, Baron, Super Blue, Johnny
00:20:21King, Iowa George, Ronnie McIntosh, and a host of musical legends from Trinidad and
00:20:26Tobago.
00:20:27It's happening October 4th, 2024 at Zappa.
00:20:30Showtime is 7.30 p.m.
00:20:32Get your tickets from WAC Radio and Atholese by the Park in San Fernando, Basil Bistro
00:20:36Woodbrook, Angels Career Services, Tobago, and from islandetickets.com.
00:20:41It's the biggest show of the year, Echoes of the Black Stalin Classic Concert.
00:20:45See you there.
00:20:57And we are back.
00:20:58You can give us a call at 623-1711, extension 1992, 1993, and 1997.
00:21:05Representing the Western Division, we have back on the show ASP Russell, and we continue
00:21:11our conversation where we first began when I mentioned domestic violence.
00:21:16Domestic violence is nothing new to our society.
00:21:19No, it's not.
00:21:20We are seeing it more and more in our faces because of social media and persons who are
00:21:24sharing and taping in the moment, and having surveillance around that will capture a lot
00:21:29of the activities and also the deaths of some of our men and women who have been involved
00:21:35in domestic violence.
00:21:36Now, over the weekend, we saw that there was a woman who was involved in a stabbing incident
00:21:42in the Western area, and we're seeing that domestic violence continues to be a thorn
00:21:49in our nail.
00:21:50I don't know what to say for TTPS, but society.
00:21:54Yeah, definitely.
00:21:55Yeah.
00:21:56So, where is the TTPS for this?
00:21:58Because if, God forbid, I'm in a domestic dispute and I come to the police station,
00:22:05what is the first step of the TTPS engaging with me?
00:22:08What I'm happy you asked that, Whitney.
00:22:10The first step is that if you have any injuries, the first thing we must do is render aid.
00:22:16Once you're okay, we take you to a private area because we must record your report.
00:22:22One.
00:22:23And, you know, going on the days now, we are now guided by our customer service policy,
00:22:28which sets out certain guidelines as to how we have to speak and how we have to respond
00:22:32to members of the public.
00:22:33So, we take it one step further with respect to our customer service policy.
00:22:38So, we're not going to take your report in front there because I know that's an issue
00:22:42because somebody's reporting an accident and you are not reporting domestic violence and
00:22:46they are listening.
00:22:47And watching.
00:22:48So, we take you to a private area.
00:22:50Yeah.
00:22:51Yeah.
00:22:52One.
00:22:53If you record your report, we will take your statements.
00:22:55If you still need to seek medical attention, we would give you a medical.
00:23:01If you choose to go by yourself, we could take you as well.
00:23:04Okay.
00:23:05We could call in our witness victim and support unit to start to commence the counseling.
00:23:12We would contact our gender-based violence unit and we have amalgamated the gender-based
00:23:16violence unit, sexual offenses unit, and child protection unit into one called the
00:23:22Special Victims Department.
00:23:24So, we are doing things and we are also guided by standing order 53, which outlines exactly
00:23:31all that we would have done, that we need to do when a person comes in because we have
00:23:36a domestic violence register that the SDOIC, the inspector, must initial and sign daily
00:23:46upon his arrival for duty to ensure that these matters are being taken care of, to
00:23:50ensure that these matters are being investigated.
00:23:52Of course, most of the times, no, because we have this whole Special Victims Department,
00:23:56we would refer it, but it doesn't stop us from commencing the initial part of it and
00:24:03rendering aid and asking you if you want to go to our shelter.
00:24:06And you know, listening to things coming out of the symposium, it's nice to see that we
00:24:15are now encouraging NGOs to come in, to provide additional shelters, to amend certain things
00:24:22where a parent could now go with their children to a shelter because before, they weren't
00:24:28taking boys.
00:24:29Yeah, and you know, when you look at the option, my daughter and I, and I leave my son, it's
00:24:37something to encourage you to go back and what we want to do is to desist, to encourage
00:24:43persons to desist from that.
00:24:46Now, we have to understand, too, and I call on my officers to be mature and understand
00:24:51that we have male victims as well.
00:24:54And it's a serious thing, males are victims as well.
00:24:58Notwithstanding that, the women make up the bulk of the victims and it calls for a level
00:25:04of serious professionalism.
00:25:06Under my watch in the Western Division, you, in situations like that, you will be disciplined
00:25:14and investigation will be launched against you.
00:25:17But we need all persons involved.
00:25:19We need an all of society approach with respect to dealing with domestic violence because
00:25:25you must be able to tell your friend, hey, come out of that.
00:25:29Even if it means offering your friend a bedroom stay for a while.
00:25:33The state has gone into avenues where they teach you a skill, so there's a skill-based
00:25:41program to make you financially independent of your, the abuser.
00:25:47Because a lot of people go back into it because what else are they going to do, I ain't working
00:25:51no way.
00:25:52And we have to understand the psychological, because domestic violence has a stage thing,
00:25:58because of the tension building stage, where things tense around the house, you're feeling
00:26:02the tension.
00:26:03Then there's the incident stage.
00:26:06And then there's what you call the reconciliation or the honeymoon stage, the baby, I'm sorry,
00:26:10I won't do it again.
00:26:12And there's a calm for a period.
00:26:14The bipolar disorder.
00:26:15Well.
00:26:16I mean, I'm not a medical practitioner that gives that all the time.
00:26:21But there's a calm for a bit.
00:26:23And then the cycles restarts.
00:26:26And already times, women and men, because it's so emotionally based, you may see signs,
00:26:35it may start with a verbal, it may start with a threat, it may start with you being cursed.
00:26:42What about persons who, you know, they tell you about their past relationships, for example,
00:26:48you know, yeah, that's my ex, and I had put her out by the foreshore, because she was
00:26:54giving me lip, and I drive off and leave her there to find her way home.
00:26:58And you tell him, well, that can't be me, that can never be me, she's crazy.
00:27:02But that could be a sign.
00:27:03Because it shows any form of...
00:27:05That is a sign.
00:27:06Yeah.
00:27:07Because I mean, we are both having discussions.
00:27:09And if because you're sitting in my car, you have to be quiet, something is definitely
00:27:13wrong with that.
00:27:14And as men, I want to encourage us to love the women, love the women and love our children.
00:27:19And you know, the domestic violence goes way beyond intimate partner, because it could
00:27:23have aunt and nephew, father and son, mother and daughter, it could be sibling, it could
00:27:27be grandmother, it could be brother and sister.
00:27:30And it could be emotional, financial abuse, physical abuse, verbal abuse, psychological
00:27:36abuse.
00:27:37What about work abuse?
00:27:38Do you all ever?
00:27:39Have you ever had work abuse?
00:27:40Well, I'm just using that widely, I know it may be not a term, when I say work abuse,
00:27:45that you work in an environment where your employer abuses you.
00:27:50It could be verbal abuse.
00:27:52Well, we have a system to treat with that.
00:27:54We have a system to treat with that.
00:27:56It wouldn't be called...
00:27:57No, I'm just saying.
00:27:58I just...
00:27:59We don't refer to it.
00:28:00I just work abuse.
00:28:01I just say, being abused.
00:28:02Can I say being abused at work?
00:28:03No.
00:28:04But we are guided by a complaints process.
00:28:07Yeah.
00:28:08SO48, our standing order, as well as 14 and 2008 departmental order, outlines our complaints
00:28:16process for that.
00:28:17So we have our internal remedies, fixes and processes for things like that.
00:28:22So I'm making it very clear from what you said, the first stage of engaging with an
00:28:27officer with a domestic dispute, regardless of who the relative may be, is one where you
00:28:33have to remove them from where they are in a private space to then gather the information
00:28:38and report.
00:28:39Now, correct me if I'm wrong, I remember seeing a statement from the Attorney General stating
00:28:46where domestic violence was concerned because he was seeing what was happening in the country
00:28:52and was getting way out of hand, where persons who may have made a report or didn't make
00:28:57a report and there's evidence showing that an individual was abusive to another individual,
00:29:02the TTPS could intervene.
00:29:04Of course, the TTPS could intervene and neighbor could call on your behalf.
00:29:08As a matter of fact, under, is that 27 or 1999 or 18 of 2020, which is the amendment,
00:29:15because there has been a recent amendment to the Domestic Violence Act, the police officer,
00:29:20if we are on patrol and we have the opinion, like for instance, we hear a woman bawling
00:29:24out from behind a door, we have a power to enter a premises without warrant.
00:29:29Without even the victim making a report, without even the victim making a report, we hear you
00:29:33bawling inside the murder, murder, he killing me.
00:29:37We have a power to enter your premises without having a warrant in our possession, we could
00:29:42justify that.
00:29:43It's catered for us under the Act.
00:29:44So, it's not that we are powerless, what I would say we may need is a greater level of
00:29:48education as to the powers that we have under the law and that is something that I would
00:29:54endeavor to do and the TTPS organization, we know the public of our customers and wherever
00:30:01we would have owed our customers, we do apologize, but when it comes to remedying, we are willing
00:30:06to put all systems in place to remedy instances like that.
00:30:10How do you treat with your officers who may have to deal with or for them to understand
00:30:14that you may have a domestic violence victim coming to the station over and over, over
00:30:20and over.
00:30:21I just want you to talk to him or I just want you to talk to her.
00:30:24I want you to just, you know, let him calm down and the officers reach a point where
00:30:30I'm just fed up because you want to stay in that.
00:30:33How are you all letting your officers know the importance of...
00:30:36Well, Mrs. Burns, whether you make one report or a hundred report, our job, the TTPS's job
00:30:47is to respond to every report.
00:30:50Now, we must encourage you to come out of the situation based on the knowledge that
00:30:56we have and how these things explode over time, so we will encourage you, but if you
00:31:02come once, five, ten times, what is important that we note our efforts.
00:31:08You see, a victim comes to us, the victim hasn't done anything, so there isn't any
00:31:13power of arrest, unless that victim wants to go forward, let me say the person hits
00:31:18and even reports a threat, we could charge you for that, yeah?
00:31:23But a lot of the times, even when the victim comes and the victim warned the individual
00:31:28we are here to serve you, so you have your dish, you see like when you go to a restaurant
00:31:33you order what you want to eat, you come and tell us how you want us to assist you, however,
00:31:39if we see it's a situation, we could override, we could still have you do a medical, we could
00:31:47take a statement, do the necessary first, charge him and let the chips fall away, yeah?
00:31:54Because of how extreme it may be.
00:31:56Because of how extreme it may be, and we understand there's a psychological, I, in my view, no
00:32:04one wants to have somebody beating up on them every day, no one wants to be told hurtful
00:32:08things, yeah, and men, we as men have to have that emotional intelligence, that self-awareness,
00:32:18that self-management, that relationship management to be able to walk away when things get heated
00:32:24in the house, and we need to really have these things on curriculums in school, because
00:32:30as a society, we need to learn to manage our emotions, I mean, I am perfect either, but
00:32:36there are times where we allow our emotions to get the better of us.
00:32:41We need to take a break, we'll be back.
00:33:14Call 377-214-6 or visit at any location in Trinidad and Tobago.
00:33:19Make the right choice in eyewear at Seaview Optical.
00:33:22Get complete single vision lenses with frames for $2.99, single vision lenses with transition
00:33:26and designer frames $8.99, and get your progressive transitions with designer frames for $14.99
00:33:32at Seaview Optical, affordable eyewear for everyone.
00:33:35Plumbing problems?
00:33:37Don't guess.
00:33:38Call Plumbing Solutions at 628-4646.
00:33:42Proud to be serving Trinidad and Tobago for over 20 years, we do it all.
00:33:48Maintenance and repairs, new construction, sewer lines, inspection, drain cleaning, leak
00:33:57detection, we are licensed and insured, so call Plumbing Solutions at 628-4646.
00:34:13And we are back, you can give us a call at 623-1711, extension 1992, 1993, and 1997.
00:34:22We continue to talk on the show until we are no longer blue, we are green, going into brown.
00:34:28That we are begging persons the importance of not getting caught in the dark web, especially
00:34:33in these marketplaces online.
00:34:36Not in one in particular, but across the board.
00:34:39We are seeing again, persons who are being robbed, even injured, sometimes killed, when
00:34:44they put themselves out there.
00:34:47ASP Russell, how much more, I mean we are at green stage now, our faces are turning
00:34:52green, bordering brown.
00:34:54Well Ms. Husbands, as the TTPS, and as a representative of the TTPS, we will continue to speak.
00:35:01We will continue to speak, and where we could prefer criminal charges against persons involved
00:35:05in this, we will do so.
00:35:07But we need the cooperation of the victim.
00:35:10You see, crime fighting is something that we need the public, the police are the public,
00:35:15and the public are the police, you know.
00:35:18The public have to understand how important their role is, you know.
00:35:22When you sit and you do nothing, you contribute, you know.
00:35:26I see your hands just as bloody.
00:35:28Just by that omission, and we would have offered our police stations as safe houses.
00:35:35Come there and do your transaction.
00:35:38But persons still going in these weird places, 99% of the time, you see the price.
00:35:44For that price, something that you know in your mind should be more expensive.
00:35:48Yeah, yeah.
00:35:49And you got, you just, you know.
00:35:52It can't be that I got this and everybody else saw it, and I get you first, you know,
00:35:56it's meant for me.
00:35:57Easy trigger.
00:35:58Yes.
00:35:59I go meet you by the station, and then they start.
00:36:00I don't want to meet there, you know, I'm busy, I'm working late.
00:36:04You must pick up these triggers, you must pick up these signs, it's about being aware.
00:36:08Have you ever had a victim that you had to speak to with regards to this, and you ever
00:36:14ask them, if that was the case, why do they, or what was that moment where they realized
00:36:19that I wanted to engage more with the person who was selling?
00:36:25The price.
00:36:27Price rules everything.
00:36:28Price.
00:36:29You know, us Trinidadians, we love our dealer.
00:36:31Yeah.
00:36:32There are so many established businesses out there that are giving you deals and, you know,
00:36:36you could burn your belly a little bit, but I just want to know.
00:36:37But you know what with me, if we could save 200 more, somebody would say that's gas.
00:36:43Yeah, but.
00:36:44There's a ticket for the events, I get to buy my nice phone, and I have money to go
00:36:49in the event.
00:36:50I buy a ticket to floss, as they say, with my nice phone.
00:36:54We trying.
00:36:55I feel sorry for them though.
00:36:56I tell you, we offer our stations as safe houses, and people still.
00:37:01But my whole thing is, if you could give up that amount of cash, because you're not giving
00:37:06up $500, many times, let's say the minimum is $3,000, you could go to the same place
00:37:13that may be, because we see it's like with the phone issue, or where people just want
00:37:18to purchase a phone, you have all these dealerships that they are offering, you know, higher purchase
00:37:23on items, and I'm going to call them to give them free advertising, but you could use that,
00:37:28and as you said, education is key.
00:37:31It could assist you, you think, and it's long people who work on all these things.
00:37:34But hassle-free loans are there, but we always see it as, once I have a loan, it's like dead
00:37:41weight on me that I have to carry.
00:37:44But then when they take the hard money that you worked for, blood, sweat, and tears, and
00:37:49you have nothing in return for it.
00:37:51Which one is worse?
00:37:52I'll tell you this, a lot of the times, we are so interested in a deal, that we don't
00:38:01think that far, you know, oh yeah, we want that phone, we're getting it $2,000 cheaper.
00:38:08Have you asked yourself, why is that item $2,000 cheaper, if it's the latest model?
00:38:13So they're supposed to just want to lose $2,000, they're so distrained, they so love you, that
00:38:19he or she just wants to lose $2,000.
00:38:21And I mean, we have to think and really try to protect ourselves first.
00:38:27As I say, if the deal is too good to be true, then it's too good to be true.
00:38:32We have a call on the line, let's say to the phone lines, hello, good afternoon.
00:38:35Hello, good afternoon to you, and good afternoon to you, professor.
00:38:39Good afternoon, sir.
00:38:40Professor, I know you want to be in the show, so Friday night's the next time.
00:38:45Yeah.
00:38:46Okay, good day, sir.
00:38:48We'll meet in Brown Arrow.
00:38:50Professor, I want to ask two questions.
00:38:53It's kind of complicated, but it is relevant.
00:38:57A person, a civil person comes to me and reports on domestic violence, and he puts me, who
00:39:04he's taking in the report, and so on.
00:39:07And we get together, push me one line, and so on.
00:39:11How do the executives of the police service deal with that?
00:39:15That's my number one.
00:39:16And number two, do you all treat officers like if a man comes, a gentleman comes and
00:39:23reports domestic violence?
00:39:25Do you treat officers not to be the police and not to be the person making the report?
00:39:33I want to hear your responses.
00:39:38You want to start with the last question first?
00:39:40Yes, I'll do that.
00:39:44Our customer service policies that has been launched states that regardless to your age,
00:39:52race, creed, color, sexual orientation, we ought to treat you professionally.
00:40:00The police service mantra is, in partnership with the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago,
00:40:06we cater for safe and secure communities through professional policing, focused leadership,
00:40:12and consistently high service.
00:40:14Consistently great service, I would want to say.
00:40:18And regardless to what, we're supposed to respond to you a particular way.
00:40:26So if an officer, if you feel belittled, embarrassed, ridiculed by an officer of my organization,
00:40:35there is a complaints process.
00:40:38You can go to 112 Markle Building, Henry Street, which is the complaints department.
00:40:45If you don't feel like going there, you can go in the comfort of your house.
00:40:48www.complaints.divisionatttps.gov.tt and you can do your complaint online.
00:40:57We have the TTPS app.
00:40:59Say that again?
00:41:00If there's a senior officer there, could you request?
00:41:02Of course, if there's a senior officer.
00:41:04And now, to make it even better, we now have suggestion boxes in our charge room
00:41:09in keeping with our customer service policies.
00:41:11Take a nice little memory of the number.
00:41:145656, all right, cool.
00:41:17And you make a nice little note.
00:41:18It could be in his presence, her presence, or you could go home, write it,
00:41:21and just come and just drop it back in the box the next day.
00:41:23Quick question.
00:41:24With that box, who is in charge of getting those complaints out?
00:41:29And is there a lock?
00:41:30The box is locked.
00:41:33And no, it's not police emptying the box.
00:41:36We have a customer service secretariat.
00:41:38So we want to make sure that we go the extra mile.
00:41:41And because it's a policy, failure to comply with what is written in that policy
00:41:47constitutes a disciplinary offense.
00:41:50So we will discipline you.
00:41:51And in the TTPS, if you end up in front of a three-man tribunal
00:41:58for disobedience to orders, neglect of duty, we can dismiss you.
00:42:04Okay.
00:42:05And the tribunal have dismissed persons.
00:42:08Because we know we may have our issues, but our punishments,
00:42:13as outlined in the Police Service Regulation 2007, are very robust.
00:42:22And we are looking to do improvements on them.
00:42:24Which is a plus.
00:42:25So there is a remedy.
00:42:28There is a process.
00:42:30Should you be ridiculed, come in, and you've received that kind of service.
00:42:34As a matter of fact, any report that you come in the station to make,
00:42:38we ought to treat you a significant way.
00:42:40And failure to do so?
00:42:42Disciplinary action.
00:42:43Of course.
00:42:44Start the complaint process.
00:42:45When we come back after the break,
00:42:46I want to touch quickly on an officer being an abuser with NTTPS.
00:42:52No problem.
00:42:54We'll be back.
00:42:59In every community, on every field of play, in every heart,
00:43:03the Ministry of Sport and Community Development is making a difference.
00:43:07From modern sports facilities to community empowerment programs,
00:43:11we've invested in you, the people who make Trinidad and Tobago stronger every day.
00:43:17Together, we've built a foundation for success.
00:43:20When people and communities thrive, the nation excels.
00:43:24Ministry of Sport and Community Development, empowering our people, shaping our future.
00:43:29Make the right choice in eyewear at Seaview Optical.
00:43:32Get complete single vision lenses with frames for $299.
00:43:34Single vision lenses with transition and designer frames $899.
00:43:38And get your progressive transitions with designer frames for $1499.
00:43:41At Seaview Optical, affordable eyewear for everyone.
00:43:44Step into delight.
00:43:46Make the best choice for price, quality, and performance this Diwali with new appliances for your home.
00:43:52Choose from our expanded range, including new French door and side-by-side refrigerators,
00:43:56microwaves, ceramic cooktops with four or five burners, chest freezers, automatic washing machines, and much more.
00:44:02Enjoy the festival of lights with new appliances for your home at an affordable price.
00:44:07Get the best range of appliances available nationwide.
00:44:16And we are back. You can give us a call at 623-1711, extension 1992, 1993, and 1997.
00:44:29ASP Russell, I asked a question before we went to the break where a member of the TTPS, he or she, is an abuser to family members.
00:44:42And many times you will hear a person saying, he or she is part of the TTPS.
00:44:46I can't make a report because they're looking out for the batch, you know, the batch talk.
00:44:52And they're covering and shielding.
00:44:54How are you all showing or being transparent when someone who is representing the TTPS and supposed to uphold a certain standard is not?
00:45:04Let me answer that. Let me start by saying this.
00:45:09There is no organization in Trinidad and Tobago that police their own like we police our own.
00:45:16We have hundreds of officers before the court through the Professional Standards Bureau.
00:45:22And we have hundreds of officers before the tribunal.
00:45:25So number one, there's no organization that polices their personnel like us.
00:45:30And if the officer himself is an abuser and you come to the station and make that report, please do not allow them to give you a form and tell you, go to the complaints.
00:45:41They must take your report because the principal offense is a criminal offense.
00:45:46So we ought to take your report.
00:45:48If he hits you, send you to do a medical, treat it as a regular report.
00:45:55And then you hand the person the form to also go complaints.
00:45:59But an official report was made.
00:46:01But an official report, we ought not to.
00:46:03Because you see, we cannot tell you, once an offense is committed, we cannot tell you, well, because his officer just take the form and go.
00:46:10He actually did, he or she actually did something that is against the law.
00:46:15But in this case, I mean, the officers are in possession of a deadly weapon.
00:46:21So I'm assuming that the action, if once the report is made, that internally, quick action is supposed to happen, not saying to charge because we don't know.
00:46:29No.
00:46:30But for the security of the life of the victim and also the officer, because the officer could, you know, trip off and commit suicide, God forbid.
00:46:40But that is actually a reality of it.
00:46:43Where are you when it comes to that report being made on that officer to mentally make sure that officer is stable?
00:46:49One of the first things we want to find out from the person making the report is if the officer is the holder of an FUL.
00:46:55Especially as it relates to domestic violence matters.
00:46:59We as seniors, we have the authority to come and ask the officer to hand over his weapon.
00:47:05Whether it's a service issue or an FUL, we would seize that weapon.
00:47:10We make the relevant notes, write the relevant reports, and we would take charge of that weapon.
00:47:16Conduct our investigation and let the chips fall where it may.
00:47:19If he's to be charged and prosecuted, then he's charged and prosecuted, you know.
00:47:24And it doesn't stop you from making a report to the Police Complaints Division.
00:47:28It doesn't stop you from going to PCA.
00:47:30If you feel that you'll be wronged by the police officers and you want to go to the Police Complaints Authority, the civilian body, you are also free to do that.
00:47:38You know, I observe, especially when persons are applying to become an officer in the TTPS, that they will place the person's name and pictures in the papers for you.
00:47:49You know, when they're doing the proper, you know, analysis of the individuals and persons who may see the name.
00:47:55And say, okay, you know, this person I know in my area committed X, Y, Z, and they called.
00:47:59That is the reason why they do that, correct?
00:48:01That is the reason, yeah.
00:48:02So why is it that to bring, again, the word transparency to the TTPS and as you mentioned, police officers have been before the court or still before the court, hundreds of them.
00:48:14And disciplinary action has been taken and if convicted or charged or whatever the case is or dismissed, why you don't put them back in the papers?
00:48:21So persons will know that this person is no longer officer, meaning after everything has been done, you know, just putting them out there like that.
00:48:28A decision was made, conviction maybe happened, and now you have to place them in the papers so they'll know this person is no longer part of us.
00:48:36And that is a very good suggestion and I like it.
00:48:39I don't know what our parameters would be as it exists within the law to do that.
00:48:47We certainly cannot do it until the matter is finished.
00:48:50Exactly.
00:48:51Yeah?
00:48:52Because you're innocent until proven guilty.
00:48:54Yeah, that's what I mean.
00:48:55Once the matter is finished, we dismiss the officer.
00:48:59As going that far, I am not aware if the TTPS would do something like that, but it's a point to note and it's a point to take to the executive.
00:49:09Going forward, we may have a policy because as the public voice your opinions on things, we look at your ideas and suggestions and we take them into consideration.
00:49:20And what you're saying, no, we will take your uniform, we will take your ID.
00:49:26So there is no way for that person to still, as we quote-unquote say, play police.
00:49:32Once you're on suspension, we take your uniform.
00:49:35And I'm saying you're convicted.
00:49:39Once you're charged and you're on suspension, we take your uniform, we take your ID.
00:49:45So we put a hole on those things so it stops immediately.
00:49:48The only time that is returned to you is if you won your matter.
00:49:53Because it's like having a registry, as you said.
00:49:56The sex offenders registry that we have in Trinidad and Tobago.
00:49:59You could have a disciplinary action registry.
00:50:02I'm making up things as I go along.
00:50:04I'm just saying, at the top of my head.
00:50:06Innovative.
00:50:07Yeah.
00:50:08At the top of my head, where we are at with that because the same way when you entered, your face and information was plastered all over the papers.
00:50:17So if you disgraced the uniform and also brought disgrace to the nation because you're supposed to be protecting and serving,
00:50:27the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago, you should be placed back in the papers for that as well.
00:50:32But I will tell you this, in the absence of criminal matters, even though it's a disciplinary matter,
00:50:36there may be disciplinary matters that wouldn't get you dismissed.
00:50:39We may fine you the ESP.
00:50:41We may do a reduction in the rank.
00:50:42We may do a referral of your income.
00:50:44You're still in the service.
00:50:45So that would not warrant.
00:50:47No, no, no.
00:50:48Not that.
00:50:49I mean, as in you're no longer a part.
00:50:50As this hardcore.
00:50:51Yes.
00:50:52Yeah.
00:50:53It's a good idea.
00:50:54Not if you're undemoted.
00:50:55No, no, no.
00:50:56I mean, that's extreme.
00:50:57That's too much.
00:50:58You're still serving.
00:50:59You're still serving, yeah.
00:51:00Not like that.
00:51:01I'm speaking, you are no longer.
00:51:02You can't show up in the station.
00:51:03No.
00:51:04All your policing rights.
00:51:05You cannot.
00:51:06Go on.
00:51:07You can't jump in a police vehicle and do patrol.
00:51:08You're not part of the service.
00:51:09Well, it's not something that could be recommended.
00:51:10And we would recommend to the executive with respect to that.
00:51:15And we would see how our legal minds within the TTPS see it as.
00:51:20The public will embrace that.
00:51:21Because, yeah, what happened?
00:51:24As much as the public may, would embrace that.
00:51:27Don't say me.
00:51:28Would embrace that.
00:51:31For some reason, if you are no longer in your job, you would want the opportunity to still
00:51:37take care of your family.
00:51:38Yes, correct.
00:51:39And we shouldn't put you in a disadvantageous position where your face has been plastered
00:51:47all over and then you cannot, you know, obtain employment at some point in time again.
00:51:56However, however, it's something that we could look at.
00:52:01You don't want to take a knot with a pinch.
00:52:05Well, I understand your take.
00:52:06A pinch.
00:52:07Because if I commit a crime, which I'm not going to, I commit a crime.
00:52:13But it depends on the crime.
00:52:15No, no, no.
00:52:16I commit a crime.
00:52:19I am on the papers tomorrow.
00:52:22And if it shows that this person really wasn't involved in the matter or whatever, or maybe
00:52:28I save my time, get convicted and I'm out.
00:52:32My face is still plastered and I still have to look for work.
00:52:35And so if you commit the crime in uniform, you put a new, you put a new caveat on it
00:52:42now in uniform.
00:52:43Yeah, no.
00:52:44I mean, it doesn't matter.
00:52:45Once you're a police officer, you're always a police officer.
00:52:47Definitely.
00:52:48So if you're kidnapping people or robbing people and you're still part of the TTPS,
00:52:52I am not concerned about if you have to work after you save your time because if I commit
00:52:57a crime, I have to face the hot water that's coming its way.
00:53:03So it can be for some and for others.
00:53:06It's like because, you know, he was or she was an officer.
00:53:09Oh gosh, let's get them a blighter.
00:53:11No, because we don't get, remember, you don't get blights.
00:53:14If you break the law, you're breaking the law.
00:53:17Well, you know, you could break the law by traffic, by speeding and you would have gotten
00:53:21a blight already at some point in time.
00:53:23Tell me you never got a blight.
00:53:25No, I have.
00:53:26Well, not for speeding, for the seatbelt, but yeah.
00:53:29So that's breaking the law?
00:53:30That is breaking the law.
00:53:31Oh, right then.
00:53:32That is breaking the law.
00:53:33Very well.
00:53:34But when it comes to doing better as, yeah, I know where you're coming from.
00:53:38Y'all are trained.
00:53:39I always say that.
00:53:40Y'all are trained on a different level to us.
00:53:42That is why it is not called civilian policing.
00:53:46Your rank, your position, corporal, you have SRP as much as people like to disrespect that,
00:53:52but it is a form of where you start at this stage of training where I have no access to that.
00:53:58And the rules were given to you the same way we get the rules from you all and you all
00:54:01have to uphold the law.
00:54:02And when we break it, what happens?
00:54:04Well, Ms. Husbands, let me tell you something.
00:54:06We have a violent crime reduction plan.
00:54:08And objective number 14 is exhibit a zero tolerance on policing, discipline, and corruption.
00:54:14So our service is taking a zero tolerance approach on that.
00:54:20I would voice your opinions and your recommendations.
00:54:24Well, they could hear it now.
00:54:26To the relevant authorities.
00:54:28I hope the commissioner is listening.
00:54:30And they would not have a discussion with their legal minds.
00:54:34And a way forward will come out of that discussion.
00:54:38Just know when it comes to fusion, that it is on behalf of beyond the tape.
00:54:44Not a problem, Ms. Husbands.
00:54:46So make note of that.
00:54:47Not a problem.
00:54:48And when it comes to building trust and legitimacy, I would take your suggestion forward, Ms. Husbands.
00:54:54Yes, I hope so because we're trying to work together.
00:54:57Of course.
00:54:58What is the saying?
00:54:59The police.
00:55:00The police are the people and the people are the police.
00:55:01The police.
00:55:02So let's do it together.
00:55:03In the neighborhood, who's the first police?
00:55:04You.
00:55:05Because we are the eyes.
00:55:06Ah.
00:55:07And then we bring it to you.
00:55:08See?
00:55:09You're getting it.
00:55:10So we're working together.
00:55:11All the time.
00:55:12Okay.
00:55:13We'll be back.
00:55:19Make the right choice in eyewear at Seaview Optical.
00:55:21Get complete single vision lenses with frames for $299.
00:55:24Single vision lenses with transition and designer frames $899.
00:55:27And get your progressive transitions with designer frames for $1499.
00:55:31At Seaview Optical.
00:55:32Affordable eyewear for everyone.
00:55:35Nobody knew I existed.
00:55:37But look at all these people.
00:55:40Who do you think they see?
00:55:43The real you.
00:55:46Joker.
00:55:47Joker.
00:55:48Joker.
00:55:49**Music**
00:56:06**Door Opens**
00:56:07**Sounds of a car**
00:56:10**Door Closes**
00:56:11**Sounds of a car**
00:56:13**Door Opens**
00:56:14Maybe you could afford to pay up to $22,500 in fines and lose your license permanently.
00:56:22No? Then don't drink and drive.
00:56:26A message from the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service.
00:56:31**Music**
00:56:41And we are back. At this time we give you the opportunity, ASP, to speak to the public.
00:56:46And, you know, connect with them to find out ways so we can continue the relationship with the TTPS.
00:56:52Well, you know, we want to encourage the public and we continue to support the TTPS.
00:56:57First of all, continue to pray for us.
00:56:59We appreciate your prayers because we need your covering.
00:57:04Continue to bear with us, especially when we're doing the roadblocks.
00:57:10These days we know there's a lot of traffic and school has reopened and we want you to bear with us.
00:57:16For the domestic violence, 800-SAVE is an important number that everybody should remember.
00:57:24800-SAVE.
00:57:26For the Western Division, the St. James Police Station, let me leave you with our numbers so you can contact us and get that prompt response.
00:57:34For the new vehicles?
00:57:36All the time.
00:57:38Yes, so St. James Station is 622-9169 or 3695.
00:57:43629-2001, that's from Marval.
00:57:47Carriage is 633-1135.
00:57:51Western is 637-4226.
00:57:55Four Roads is 637-3860.
00:58:01One more thing, Ms. Husband.
00:58:03I'm certain that you would have seen the amount of officers that would have partnered with the Defence Force to make sure and to be able to see.
00:58:09Aren't you feeling safer walking through the streets of Port of Spain?
00:58:13Well, the day I was out, yes, I saw them.
00:58:15I guess that was the launch date, but I haven't been in Port of Spain to see if they were still there.
00:58:20Because you know, you'll have the photo-op moments.
00:58:22So I'm waiting to see if I pop up in Port of Spain again.
00:58:25Well, that I will see.
00:58:27I will challenge you to pop up in Port of Spain and even come to the Western Division.
00:58:30Is it also at night as well?
00:58:32Yes, it's at night and it's continuous.
00:58:35We, the police service, together with the other protective arms of Finland and Tobago, understand that we have to push back.
00:58:42It is great to hear that the Coast Guard will soon be outfitted with their vessels.
00:58:48So we have continuous lockdown on the border.
00:58:51I've even heard in the news recently, there was a conversation about Customs having that meat unit back on the water.
00:58:58So, Finland and Tobago, we are making attempts to make Finland and Tobago safer.
00:59:02We are making attempts to lock down the borders and treat with the fire misuse that we have.
00:59:07In keeping with our violent crime reduction plan, we look at dismantling criminal gangs, eradicating drug blocks and retrieval of illegal firearms.
00:59:16Finland and Tobago, we know and we understand the pressure.
00:59:19We understand the fear of crime.
00:59:21But rest assured, the Finland and Tobago Police Service is doing all that they can do.
00:59:26And yes, we know there is room for improvement and we will continue to improve.
00:59:29We welcome your suggestions.
00:59:31We welcome your partnership and just continue to pray for us and support us.
00:59:35Yes, you mentioned that.
00:59:36Now, quickly, just something that came back to me.
00:59:38When you were last here, the noise pollution in your area.
00:59:40How are things going with that?
00:59:42Are you all able to treat it?
00:59:44Well, the noise pollution is something that has declined.
00:59:48What we do, especially on those holiday weekends, especially when we get paid, we come out.
00:59:54We come out to have a time.
00:59:56So, what we have is we have stationary exercises where we actually go to these bars and visit these bars to make sure that their permits are there.
01:00:04That they have dance hall license number one.
01:00:07That the bar license is in order.
01:00:09Just that presence and that continuous check-in and continuous conversation with the neighbors to ensure that they are keeping their arrangements has done a lot, I must say.
01:00:19I know you mentioned before when you were here with Mason Street with the noise pollution.
01:00:24Is it better now, especially in that zone?
01:00:27I would want to say it's better.
01:00:29We would know when St. James has their next town meeting.
01:00:33We invite the public to come out.
01:00:35We will definitely advertise it.
01:00:37Because this is our way where we allow you to come out and say in the town meetings how you want to be policed.
01:00:42And what are the issues facing your community.
01:00:44Where we tailor our police responses under that community police philosophy.
01:00:49To treat with the issues in that particular neighborhood.
01:00:52Looking at crime prevention through environmental design, CIPTED, to our station and councils.
01:00:57We love the public, you know.
01:00:59I believe some of you all, honestly.
01:01:01Most of us.
01:01:02Yeah, honestly.
01:01:03If not all of us.
01:01:04We love the public.
01:01:05We love the public.
01:01:08I'm just being realistic.
01:01:09But for those that don't, we are training them and treating them and shaping them and molding them.
01:01:15We're not giving up on them.
01:01:16Please don't give up at all.
01:01:18Now, congratulations first of all on your 1% increase that I saw in the budget.
01:01:23I believe you all need to get more though, honestly.
01:01:25With the type of work that you all are faced with.
01:01:28You're all in a position where it's either life or death.
01:01:31And you shield with your body.
01:01:34For people we don't, you all don't know.
01:01:36So, hopefully, I mean, it's a, as I say, futuristic budget.
01:01:42But the 1% should help.
01:01:44Additional to the public sector.
01:01:47Well, I am saying, rather than go down that road with you, Ms. Husband.
01:01:53I know we have a budding and vibrant association.
01:01:58And notwithstanding, we appreciate the offer.
01:02:02I must say, I mean, what our system is one of democracy and collaborative decision making.
01:02:07So, we would have our relevant meetings and meet with the members to find out exactly which way they would want us to go.
01:02:14But, you know, sometimes it's not just about more money.
01:02:17Sometimes it's about being able to walk into St. Clair.
01:02:21Being able to walk into our shop.
01:02:23And be treated as somebody that serves their country.
01:02:27It's about walking into an institution and getting an officer's discount when you're going to buy a house.
01:02:33When you look at Maslow hierarchy of need.
01:02:35Food, clothing, shelter.
01:02:37These are the basics.
01:02:39The conversation could always go on and on representing the Western Division.
01:02:43We'd like to thank you so much, ASP Russell, for being here with us.
01:02:46And your entire division for continuing doing the hard work that you're doing.
01:02:49Tomorrow, we're back at 4.45.
01:02:51TNT, we get ready for news coming up next.
01:02:53And we also have cricket.
01:02:54Always remember, be pure and just.
01:02:55And have God in your life, no matter what.
01:02:57We're out.
Comments