CASTRIES, St Lucia (CMC) – The St Lucia government says it remains “dedicated to public safety and the well-being of all citizens” as it announced the re-appointment of the island’s first female Police Commissioner, Cruscita Descartes-Pelius for am additional year.

A statement from the Office of the Prime Minister said that Descartes-Pelius, who was first appointed in October 2022, has served the Royal St Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) with distinction for over 30 years until June 2023.

Descartes-Pelius served in several capacities before being appointed top cop last year, including the Paris-based International Police (INTERPOL). She is the holder of a Bachelor of Science in Management Studies and was awarded the National Service Cross of the Order of St Lucia when the island celebrated independence in 2021.

The statement said she has been appointed as Commissioner of Police effective September 1, 2023 for one year.

“Her reinstatement as Commissioner of Police is expected to be accompanied by a comprehensive professional training programme for senior officers aimed at cultivating strong leadership and ushering in a new cadre of leadership within the RSLPF.

“The government of St Lucia looks forward to the support of all officers as it commits to preparing officers for future leadership positions and the strengthening of the police force,” the statement said, thanking also Deputy Commissioner of Police, Ronald Phillip “for his sterling leadership as acting Commissioner of Police for the past 10 weeks”.