VIPD Detective Esther McCleod-Newton believes in bringing swift justice to perpetrators in domestic violence cases. Mcleod-Newton brought closure to a recent case by obtaining a videotaped confession from Timothy Rodney, arrested for allegedly bludgeoning his ex-wife with a fire extinguisher. The victim, Iola Martin, died days later in May at an off-island hospital.
For her efforts, McCleod-Newton was honored Tuesday at Patrick Sweeney Headquarters in Estate Golden Grove as VIPD’s May Officer of the Month. Also honored were March’s officer, Stephen Benjamin, and April Officer of the Month Andrea Claxton.
The officer of the month program is a collaboration between the St. Croix/St. Thomas Hotel and Tourism Association, the VIPD, and the Community Integration Team.
“We want to acknowledge and recognize the positive hard work and efforts the officers put forth keeping our visitors and residents safe,” said Wendy Solomon, secretary of the association. “We appreciate their accomplishments and the partnership we have with them.”
The association presented the officers with local hotel accommodations for two nights at Sand Castles on the Beach, Company House Hotel and Tamarind Reef Hotel.
Police Commissioner Novelle E. Francis Jr. praised the officers’ efforts while addressing a few dozen well-wishers.
“These officers have gone above and beyond the line of duty,” said Francis. “Every day they don uniforms, guns and badges to serve the community. They are the cream of the crop serving with courage, valor and determination.”
He said the awards are based on productivity, case loads and initiative. The recipients of the awards gain points that go towards promotions. Francis presented the officers with a commemorative VIPD coin bearing the officers’ motto and a black leather VIPD binder.
Recommendations are made by and then voted on by commanders.
Benjamin, who serves in the traffic investigation bureau, often works on his days off in overtime traffic enforcements and initiatives to help VIPD achieve a safer community for motorists. He has issued 150 citations, did not report late or sick for the month, and turns in his reports in a timely manner.
Capt. Glenn Awong, commander of Zone B, said Claxton, who has been with the force for only a year, performs admirably and is an example for her peers. She has made four arrests, two of which were for felony assaults.
“This is a big accomplishment with all the struggles and difficulties we face on a daily basis,” Claxton said. “I appreciate the fact that we are recognized for our efforts.”
Also recognized Tuesday was VIPD chaplain, Rev. Arnoldo Gonzales, who received a Civilian Service award for 25 years of ministering to the force.
