Trinidad and Tobago’s Commissioner of Police Erla Harewood-Christopher has been directed to proceed on 66 days of accrued vacation leave, effective immediately, according to a statement released Wednesday by the Ministry of Homeland Security.
The Ministry confirmed that Acting Commissioner Junior Benjamin, who has been in the role since February 6, 2025, will continue to lead the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS).
“Mr. Junior Benjamin, Commissioner of Police (Ag.), was appointed to the post of Commissioner of Police (Ag.) on February 6ᵗʰ 2025, and it is understood that this appointment would continue until the Ministry is advised by the Police Service Commission of a change in this status. The Ministry has not been advised of a change in this status,” the Ministry stated.
The Ministry also assured that operations of the TTPS remain uninterrupted under Benjamin’s leadership.
Harewood-Christopher’s contract officially ends today, one day before her 62nd birthday. Despite being recently cleared of any criminal wrongdoing, she has not received a formal letter lifting her suspension or extending her contract. The Ministry noted that she has accrued 66 days of vacation leave and has been advised to proceed on leave starting today.
Her departure follows a months-long controversy surrounding the procurement of two high-powered sniper rifles by the Strategic Services Agency (SSA). Harewood-Christopher was arrested on January 30 at her office and suspended by the Police Service Commission (PSC) the following day. The investigation concluded when Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Roger Gaspard, SC, announced on May 10 that there was insufficient evidence to lay charges.
“In this matter, on the evidence, I am of the view that there is no realistic prospect of a conviction for the offence of misbehaviour in public office or for any offence and accordingly, it would be legally wrong to proceed further,” said Gaspard.
The Ministry of Homeland Security formally acknowledged Harewood-Christopher’s contributions, stating: “The Ministry commended Mrs. Harewood-Christopher for her service spanning over four decades with the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service, and said her dedication and leadership have significantly contributed to the advancement of the TTPS and the enhancement of public safety in our nation.”
Her appointment in 2022 was a milestone moment for the TTPS and the nation. As the first female Commissioner, Harewood-Christopher’s leadership symbolized progress in gender representation within national security ranks.
