A new Deputy Commissioner of the Bermuda Police Service has been appointed by Rena Lalgie, the Governor.

Na’imah Astwood will take over what Government House called the “substantive role” from May 1.

The Governor said: “There is no doubt that Mrs Astwood is the best candidate to serve as the Deputy Commissioner of Police.

“She has the experience and leadership qualities to address the challenges ahead.”

Mrs Astwood said that her aim was to make Bermuda safer.

She said: “I am grateful for having been appointed to the role of Deputy Commissioner of the Bermuda Police Service.

“Having begun my career with the BPS as a police cadet at the age of 17, I am excited and look forward to leading the men and women of our organisation as we continue to serve our community, making Bermuda safer.”

Mrs Astwood has been Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police since October 2021, after joining the service in 1994 and being made a Superintendent in 2018.

She has served in a number of roles within the BPS, including community policing, criminal investigation, serious crime and strategic change management.

Mrs Astwood was ranked as the second-placed candidate for the position of Deputy Commissioner of Police by an interview panel in 2018.

She was chosen to attend the strategic command course held at the College of Policing in Britain, which she completed in 2020.

Mrs Astwood received a Certificate in Criminal Justice Education from the University of Virginia, FBI Academy in 2018.

She was the first woman Black Rod for the convening of Parliament in 2010 and the first BPS female to command a parade guard.

Mrs Astwood received an Overseas Territories Police Medal in the 2018 Birthday Honours List.

Government House said that the position was advertised both locally and internationally and the appointment was made “following an open recruitment process in line with best practice”.

The appointment of Deputy Commissioner of Police is made by the Governor under Section 87 of the Bermuda Constitution.

Before making the appointment, the Governor is required to consult the Public Service Commission.

Ms Astwood is the first female deputy police commissioner since Roseanda Young, who held the post from 2005 to 2007.