Acting Royal Cayman Islands Police Commissioner David George will be leaving that post at an unspecified date later this month.
Mr. George will resume his work with the United Kingdom’s Metropolitan Police Service and another commissioner from the UK will be brought in to replace him, the Caymanian Compass has learned.
Mr. George |
The replacement commissioner, Royce Hipgrave, has worked with Sussex Police in England and served as Police Commissioner in the British Overseas Territory of Saint Helena.
‘I understand that officers and staff of the RCIPS, and the public at large, are concerned about uncertainty in these challenging times,’ Governor Stuart Jack said. ‘I am confident that a professional handover from David George to Royce Hipgrave…will provide the continuity that is needed.’
Mr. George, who was brought to Cayman in March as a temporary replacement for ousted Commissioner Stuart Kernohan, has already stayed a few months beyond what was expected to be a three to six month secondment. He informed Mr. Jack in August about his intention to leave the job.
‘When I agreed to take over the post it was for a temporary period of up to six months,’ Mr. George said in a prepared statement. ‘At the end of November I will have been here for eight months. I therefore need to return to the United Kingdom to continue my life both personal and professional.’
‘I am conscious that my leaving will place a further burden and degree of uncertainty on the RCIPS. However, I am sure the men and women of this fine organisation will be able to rise above this and support my successor in the same way they have supported me.’
Mr. Kernohan, who has been under investigation for alleged misconduct in a public office since May, is still on paid leave from the RCIPS. He was asked to return to the Cayman Islands on three separate occasions this summer by Governor Jack, but refused. The commissioner has said he was under no legal obligation to return to Cayman during his period of required leave.
Mr. Kernohan has not been arrested or charged with any crimes.
Governor Jack has initiated disciplinary proceedings against Commissioner Kernohan for his alleged failure to return. However, he is still the RCIPS commissioner at this time and cannot legally be replaced by another full time commissioner.
Mr. George said Tuesday that plans for improving the RCIPS have been set in motion.
‘The gold command (senior police officials) team has devised a clear strategic plan designed to help shape policing over the coming year,’ he said. ‘This plan…has been developed through consultation with our partner agencies and the community at large.’
‘When I leave the Cayman Islands my memories of the RCIPS will be very positive. I thank all those who have supported us during my time here and I urge you to continue offering your assistance, cooperation and support.’
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