The Cayman Islands has appointed Robert Atkin as the new Deputy Commissioner of the territory’s police service (RCIPS), following the retirement of Deputy Commissioner Anthony Ennis after 45 years of service.

The appointment, announced by Governor Jane Owen, took effect on August 1. 

Brad Ebanks also assumed the role of Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police.

The appointments followed an open recruitment process that attracted both local and international applicants. 

The process was overseen by the Police Service Commission and endorsed by the National Security Committee.

Owen said Atkin brings extensive policing experience from both the Cayman Islands and the United Kingdom.

“I am delighted to welcome Rob Atkin as Deputy Commissioner of RCIPS,” she said. “He has served with distinction since joining the Senior Command Team of RCIPS as Assistant Commissioner and brings a wealth of experience from the United Kingdom as well as strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of the strategic security challenges facing Cayman.”

She also paid tribute to Ennis, thanking him for more than four decades of dedicated service to the police service.

Commissioner of Police Kurt Walton said the deputy commissioner plays a critical role in overseeing operational policing and security across the RCIPS.

He praised Ennis for his years of service and expressed confidence that Atkin would continue providing strong leadership.

Walton also congratulated Ebanks, noting that he has served with the RCIPS for 39 years.

In his first remarks as deputy commissioner, Atkin described the appointment as “a tremendous honour” and thanked the Police Service Commission, the governor and the commissioner for their confidence in him.

He also paid tribute to Ennis, saying the outgoing deputy commissioner leaves behind “a significant legacy.”

“As Deputy Commissioner, my commitment is to provide strong and visible leadership, support our people, uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity, and continue strengthening the trust and confidence that our communities place in the RCIPS,” Atkin said.

Ebanks said he was honoured to take on the role of Acting Assistant Commissioner and looked forward to working with the senior command team to continue building “a modern, accountable and community-focused police service.”