RSCNPF Completes Breathalyzer Training to Enhance Road Safety Enforcement

The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF) has marked a significant milestone in its ongoing commitment to road safety with the successful completion of a comprehensive three-day Breathalyser Training Course. Held from July 22nd to 24th, 2025, at the Police Training Complex in Basseterre, the course aimed to equip officers with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively utilize breathalyser technology in combating impaired driving. The intensive training program, facilitated by Sergeant William Coleman, a seasoned Drug Recognition Expert (DRE) from the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office in Florida, USA, signifies a critical step towards enhancing road safety enforcement within the Federation.

Sergeant Coleman, a decorated veteran with over two decades of experience in traffic enforcement, boasts an impressive track record, having conducted over 1,000 DUI investigations and more than 100 drug influence evaluations. As one of only two DRE Instructors in Manatee County, his expertise proved invaluable in delivering a comprehensive curriculum covering a wide range of crucial topics. The course meticulously explored the legal frameworks governing impaired driving and breathalyser use, ensuring officers are well-versed in the legal parameters of their enforcement activities.

The training program encompassed not only the theoretical underpinnings of breathalyser operation but also provided hands-on practical training in the correct usage of the equipment. Participants received instruction on proper evidence documentation procedures, preparing them for effective courtroom presentation of breathalyser evidence. Furthermore, the course addressed the crucial aspect of field identification of impairment, equipping officers with the skills to recognize signs of intoxication in drivers. Ethical engagement with motorists was also emphasized, promoting professionalism and respect in all interactions. The rigorous training culminated in both practical and theoretical assessments, ensuring participants demonstrated competency and readiness for operational deployment of the newly acquired skills.

The introduction of breathalyser technology represents a crucial addition to the RSCNPF’s road safety toolkit. The Federation has witnessed a concerning number of serious accidents over the past eighteen months, with some directly attributed to excessive alcohol consumption and speeding. This alarming trend underscored the pressing need for more robust enforcement measures to address this critical issue. Breathalyser technology provides a precise and reliable method for detecting and deterring impaired driving, offering a proactive approach to preventing accidents caused by alcohol consumption. The deployment of this technology is anticipated to significantly strengthen the Force’s ability to promote safer roads and encourage responsible driving habits across the Federation.

The RSCNPF acknowledges the invaluable contributions of its esteemed partners, National Caribbean Insurance, NAGICO, TDC Insurance, Caribbean Alliance, and Guardian Insurance, whose longstanding support made this crucial training initiative possible. Their commitment to road safety has been instrumental in equipping the police force with the necessary tools to address the growing concern of impaired driving. The RSCNPF also expresses gratitude to Royal St. Kitts Hotel for generously sponsoring Sergeant Coleman’s accommodation during the training period.

The RSCNPF remains steadfast in its dedication to modernizing and expanding its operational capabilities. The adoption of breathalyser technology exemplifies the Force’s commitment to embracing innovation and continuously enhancing service delivery. These initiatives underscore the RSCNPF’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding national security and promoting the overall well-being of the public. The ongoing efforts to enhance road safety reflect a proactive approach to addressing a critical issue and demonstrate a dedication to fostering a safer environment for all residents and visitors of the Federation. Through collaborative partnerships and a commitment to innovation, the RSCNPF continues to strengthen its capacity to serve and protect the community.