The work of a police officer often appears straightforward from the outside — responding to emergencies, making arrests and patrolling communities. Yet for dozens of students who stepped inside the Royal Anguilla Police Force (RAPF) Headquarters on Wednesday, 17th June, 2026, Police Week offered a rare opportunity to see the far more complex machinery operating behind the scenes to keep Anguilla safe.
Students from various public and private primary schools spent the day exploring areas of police headquarters that most members of the public never get to see. Along the way, they met officers from specialised units, observed demonstrations and asked questions that revealed both curiosity and a growing appreciation for the many careers and responsibilities that exist within modern policing.
One of the day’s biggest attractions came on four legs.
Excitement quickly spread as students gathered to meet Bonnie and Casper, two Belgian Shepherd police dogs that form part of the RAPF’s Tactical Unit. Introduced by Officers Lawford Brown – who recently completed specialised dog-handling training in Birmingham, England – and Sean Isaacs, the canine officers demonstrated why they have become such valuable crime-fighting partners.
Students learned that the dogs are trained to detect illegal drugs and firearms using their highly developed sense of smell. Officers explained that substances such as cannabis, cocaine and MDMA can often be hidden from human sight but are much harder to conceal from a trained detection dog.
The demonstration became even more impressive when Bonnie was able to locate a firearm secretly hidden without the dog’s knowledge – sitting beside the weapon to signal she had found something of interest.
The dogs’ abilities extend far beyond locating contraband. Officers explained that they can also track missing persons and suspects by following scent trails from personal items. In another controlled exercise, students watched as Casper successfully apprehended mock suspect, Brown, while attempting to flee.
Beyond the canine demonstrations, students gained a deeper understanding of the investigative work that takes place long before a case reaches a courtroom.
Officers explained how suspects are processed and how fingerprints and photographs can help identify individuals and support investigations. Students also visited the intelligence unit, where information is analysed to assist with investigations and applications for warrants.
A stop at one of the force’s soundproof interview rooms offered further insight into police procedures. Officers explained how suspects, victims and witnesses are interviewed in a controlled environment, with conversations recorded to ensure accuracy and fairness throughout the investigative process.
Students were also informed of the armourer’s office, where police firearms are maintained and inspected to ensure they remain safe and functional.
Perhaps one of the most eye-opening sessions came in the Prosecution Department, where officers outlined what happens after detectives complete an investigation.
Students learned that police officers gather evidence and compile case files, which are then reviewed by prosecutors before matters proceed to court. Officers stressed an important lesson about the justice system: being arrested does not automatically mean someone is guilty.
Instead, prosecutors must present evidence before a magistrate or judge, who determines guilt or innocence after carefully considering the facts. The discussion also explored disclosure requirements, victims’ rights, self-defence and the role prosecutors play in seeking justice while ensuring a fair trial.
Meanwhile, detectives from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) introduced students to the wide range of cases handled by specialist investigators. They explained the responsibilities of units that investigate serious crimes such as robberies, firearm offences, serious assaults and murders, as well as teams that deal with burglaries, thefts and other offences.
Students also learned about the Safeguarding Investigation Unit, which handles sensitive matters involving children and vulnerable individuals. Officers emphasised the importance of privacy and confidentiality when dealing with victims who may already be experiencing trauma.
The open house also showcased another side of policing that is rarely visible to the public — emergency medical response. During a simulated scenario involving a gunshot victim, students watched officers demonstrate trauma care techniques used before medical personnel arrive. The exercise illustrated how police officers are often required to make critical, potentially life-saving decisions in high-pressure situations.
The final stop took students into the Corporate Development Department, where they learned how the force communicates with the public, manages crime statistics and oversees training and public relations.
Officers also outlined SecureAxa.com, the anonymous crime-reporting platform that allows members of the public to share information without revealing their identities. Students were told that information submitted through the system is processed externally before reaching police, helping to protect those who come forward.
Throughout the day, a common message echoed through every department: policing is about far more than enforcing laws. It involves investigation, communication, victim support, emergency care, intelligence gathering, prosecution and community engagement.
For the students, the experience offered a clearer understanding of the people, procedures and specialised skills working quietly behind the scenes every day to protect Anguilla — and perhaps inspired some future police officers along the way.
By Janissa Fleming
