For the second time in three years, V.I. Police Officer Claudette Buchanan has been named St. John Police Officer of the Year.
Buchanan received her award at a villa celebration for family and colleagues organized by the St. John Community Integration Team during Police Week in mid-May.
“The officer, chosen by the St. John Police Department staff, earns the award by hard work,” said Linda Bechstein who serves as the organization’s president.
Buchanan said she dreamed of being a police officer from the time she was a child growing up on St. Thomas.
After working during the day and attending evening classes, Buchanan stepped into her career in law enforcement as a school monitor. In 2004, she became an officer with the Bureau of Corrections, and in 2009, she joined the police department.
Buchanan said she enjoys being a police officer because “You’re outside in the community with more diverse people, places and things.” She has rotated positions within the district and appreciates the slightly slower pace on St John. “You get to know one another the more you’re here,” she said.
Although she has enough years to retire, Buchanan said she’s in no hurry to do so. “I do what I do not for a reward; I like to be out there, to inform and assist.”
Although she may not go looking for rewards, at the villa celebration, Buchanan was given gift certificates for restaurants including Morgan’s Mango and Extra Virgin, and a two-night stay at Gallows Point Resort.
“The Community Integration Team wanted to show the VIPD officers who serve on St. John our appreciation for their work,” said Bechstein.
The Community Integration Team was formed to serve as a bridge between the community and the VIPD. “We meet monthly to discuss issues and work toward a better St. John,” said Bechstein, who retired to St. John after a 33-year career with the police department at Bowling Green, Ohio.
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