Police officers need more diplomacy

THE EDITOR: The following letter is to the Commissioner of Police. The Commissioner of Police, Police Administration Building, Corner Sackville and Edward Streets, Port-of-Spain.

Dear Mr Guy,
On Friday May 2, 2003 I parked my car in front of Royal Bank, Arima and proceeded to use their facilities. Sir, my reason for parking there is due to the fact that I am disabled and must use crutches to get around, and policemen on duty in that area usually accommodate me and for this I am grateful to them for protecting and serving. However, on the day in question, a Police Sergeant (name and number supplied) told me that I had parked in a No-Parking area and requested my Driver’s Permit and Insurance. When he looked at my Driver’s Permit his comments were “So you is one ah Manning boy, eh,” and from his tone of voice and facial expression I knew he was preparing himself to give me a hard time. When he looked at my insurance he realised it had expired six days ago (hence my reason for withdrawing money from the bank). He then told me that the car had to be impounded at the Arima Police Station.

Sir, I know I was guilty of driving without insurance and I was prepared to face the penalties of the law but I was not prepared for what followed next. Choosing to ignore the sickly occupant in my car, this policeman impounded my car and when I politely asked about alternative means of transport for me and the other occupant, I was met with another snide comment, “If she can’t travel lock her up in the car too.” To avoid this inconvenience and embarrassment again, I asked him as to where I can park in the future if I have to access the services of Royal Bank, Arima and his answer was “That is not my job, ask the Mayor”.

Mr Guy, I know I was guilty of unlawful parking and driving without insurance and I was prepared to pay a fine or worse, have my licence confiscated because that is the job of the police service at large. What I am grieved about is the Sergeant’s behaviour about my supposed PNM affiliation and his insensitive, biased remarks to me, in the presence of my mother-in-law. With all due respect, Sir, sixmonths’ training at the Police Training College is not enough for these guardians of law and order. Behavioural science, anger management, dispute resolution and stress balance courses should be among their training. Also, they should be advised to keep their political persuasions at bay when attired in the Government of Trinidad and Tobago Police Service’s uniform, or even if they’re in plain clothes and on duty. Thank you, Mr Guy.

GERARD ASYN
Civilian
Laventille