They handle the finances, man the reception desk, do most of the secretarial and administrative work, ensure that the vehicles are up and running and even administer the information technologies on which the Belize Police Department now heavily relies. So embedded have they become in the Department that one often has to be reminded that they are not sworn to serve and protect. They are the Civilian staff of the Police Department and they can be found countrywide in all formation and sub-formations. The number of civilian staff employed by the department has grown steadily over the years and presently stands at almost two hundred and counting.

The work that they do allow the police to spend more time on actual police duties, thereby enabling higher visibility on the streets and in the fight against crime.

At a Civilian Staff Conference held at the GP center for Peace and Development on 27th February 2007 some (9) staff members with over 20 years or more of service were honored. During the conference staff exchanged ideas and expressed their concerns in various. The general sentiment was that most enjoyed working for and with the Belize Police Department. Efforts continue to enhance the working conditions of civilian staff and to ensure that all suitably qualified employees hold permanently established posts. Several civilian employees are also pursuing various courses of studies and are granted time off to do so.

In the words of a civilian secretary to her supervisor” boss you protect; I will proudly serve.”