The RCIPS has launched a full-scale search of the Cayman Islands for local men and women, between the ages of 18 and 30, who have what it takes to help keep our communities safe. The search is all part of the latest RCIPS recruitment drive which is targeted specifically at Caymanians and those who have Permanent Residency.

Applications for the post of Police Constable open today, Tuesday 1 October and close Thursday 31 October 2013. The intention is to recruit 12 -15 (twelve to fifteen) officers.

All shortlisted candidates must pass each stage of the selection process and will be fully vetted before any offer of employment is made. The selection process encompasses an entrance examination (written test – English and Mathematics), physical test (bleep test to a point of 5.4), interview and medical.

The new recruits will have 16 weeks of initial training before hitting the streets under the direction of a Tutor Constable. All recruits must successfully complete a two-year probationary period.

Chief Superintendent Kurt Walton (45), a young Caymanian who has risen through the ranks of the Service, is keen to see as many local people as possible apply to join the RCIPS. He said, “It’s clear that the make-up of any law enforcement agency must reflect the diversity of the communities it polices. We currently have 396 police officers on staff; 169 of those are Caymanian. We as a Service recognise that it’s vitally important to recruit, train, develop and retain local people. However, over the past few years the number of Caymanian officers has fallen below our preferred levels as a result of natural attrition. That’s why we have taken the decision to launch this drive specifically to recruit local officers.”

When asked about working in the RCIPS he replied, “It’s a fantastic career and there is a myriad of opportunities available, not only in front-line policing, but also in the many specialist departments such as Criminal Investigation Department (CID) , Air Operations, Financial Crime and the Joint Marine Unit.

“But it’s not at all like ‘CSI’ or ‘Law and Order’; our officers deal with real-life situations, where people are experiencing real-life, critical issues. It takes dedication, hard work and commitment to be a successful police officer; we want to attract recruits who will rise to those challenges and help us make a difference in our communities.”

Sergeant Leo Anglin, who was the first inductee into the RCIPS High Potential Development Scheme (HPDS), is also doing his part to encourage local people to join the RCIPS.  The HPDS was introduced in June 2010 and it aims to develop young Caymanian officers who demonstrate the potential to rise through the ranks of the Service. To date, 26-year-old Sgt. Anglin, who coincidentally was born in the same year that Mr. Walton joined the RCIPS, is the only officer on the scheme, but he hopes that will all change as a result of this latest recruitment drive.

“I would encourage anyone with an interest in law enforcement to seriously consider joining us,” he said.” I cannot speak highly enough of the training and the mentoring that I have received since joining the RCIPS four years ago. I love the job, but it is not without its challenges. It is hard work, but it is rewarding work – and I would recommend it as a great career choice for any young Caymanian.”

Applicants for the posts must be physically fit, computer literate and have a sound educational background. They must have no criminal convictions – in any jurisdiction – and truthfully declare ALL information requested on the application form. It’s important that potential recruits have sound social awareness and an interest in criminal law.

Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 30 on the date of appointment – which is anticipated to be 31 March 2013.

It is anticipated that the selection process (examination/ physical test/ interview and medical) will begin in January 2014.

Officers and Human Resources staff will take part in a number of visits to educational establishments and events during the month of October to raise awareness of the recruitment drive. Details of these events will be made available in due course.

An open day will be held at the RCIPS Training and Development Unit between 9.30am and 2.00pm on Saturday 5 October, 2013. Anyone who wants to find out more about becoming an officer, or the recruitment process, is encouraged to attend. Officers, Training and Development staff and Human Resources staff will be available to answer any questions.

Details of an open day to be held in the Sister Islands in mid-October are currently being finalised.

Anyone who wants to find out more about the post should visit the RCIPS website www.rcips.ky/newrecruits<http://www.rcips.ky/newrecruits> or email [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]>.