ERLA HAREWOOD-CHRISTOPHER's tenure as commissioner of police (CoP) was marked by a blend of triumphs, trials and turbulence.

What was her legacy and impact she had on the Police Service in her 43 years at the organisation?

Harewood-Christopher declined comment when asked on May 17.

Though Harewood-Christopher offered no comment, a hallmark of her interaction with the media during her two years in office, those who worked alongside her throughout her tenure had much to say.

Former acting CoP Stephen Williams said she did "reasonably well" considering the challenges faced.

"Like everyone else who would have faced the situation, she struggled in relation to it.

"She took over the organisation at a point in time when violent crimes (murders, shooting/wounding) were at a high point and it was difficult to face the challenges around that."

Harewood-Christopher's first year in office saw a decline in the country's murder rate, with the toll falling from 605 in 2022 to 577 in 2023 - a reduction of 28.

However, her second year painted a far grimmer picture.

The murder toll surged to 625 - the highest ever recorded in the country's history and an increase of 48 from the previous year.

Using the indicator of serious crimes under Harewood-Christopher's time at the helm, there were 12,874 in 2023.

This figure dropped by 1,088 in 2023 to 11,786.

Williams said the country rates the performance of police commissioners through results and specifically through violent crimes.

"The public does not look at the drop in serious crimes. Public perception is shaped by the amount of violent crime. That is what people measure."

Williams, who acted as CoP from 2012-2018, said Harewood-Christopher worked alongside him as a deputy commissioner.

"I got great support from her and I cannot speak in any negative way about her support to me. I am thankful for the support she gave me."

His tone changed when speaking about her treatment in the latter days of her tenure.

"These are some awful times and it is painful to think about how her career has ended.

"For me, she was unfairly treated at the end. She has to lift her head high as she wasn't charged for any criminal offences...but what is unfortunate is how she would have left office."

Williams, too, wished Harewood-Christopher a wonderful retirement.

The man who replaces her, acting CoP Junior Benjamin, referred to Harewood-Christopher as an icon during an interview with Newsday on May 15.

He described her as a trailblazer and mentor, whose legacy will endure for generations.

"She has set the bar for what women police officers can achieve. She has reached heights no one thought possible and left a legacy that exemplifies professionalism and mentorship.

"Many young officers, including myself, have been nurtured by her leadership and contribution."

During an interview on May 17, Benjamin said Harewood-Christopher was a transformational leader - a style where leaders inspire and motivate followers to achieve a shared vision, often leading to po