Deputy Commissioner Brenton Smith takes command of gun violence fight in SVG

Newly promoted Deputy Commissioner Brenton Smith has been assigned to lead SVG's anti-gun violence strategy. Acting Commissioner Bailey warns illegal firearms will not be tolerated.

New police leadership targets rising gun violence in St. Vincent

Searchlight SVG reports that newly promoted Deputy Commissioner Brenton Smith has been assigned strategic command of St. Vincent and the Grenadines' crime-fighting portfolio, with a direct focus on tackling the country's surge in gun violence.

The appointment was officially announced at a Royal St. Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force (RSVGPF) media conference on August 20, 2026. The briefing was convened to address organisational restructuring following Commissioner of Police Enville Williams and Deputy Commissioner Frankie Joseph going on leave.

Smith's predecessor in the role was Acting Commissioner of Police Trevor Bailey, who was elevated from Deputy Commissioner to his current position in the days leading up to the announcement.

At the press conference, Bailey acknowledged that gun violence is generating widespread concern across the country, particularly in Kingstown and its surrounding communities. "Every shooting has consequences far beyond the immediate victim. Families are devastated, communities become fearful, businesses are affected, and a sense of security that every citizen needs to enjoy is undermined," he said.

Bailey gave assurances that police leadership recognises the gravity of the situation and has no intention of treating gun violence as routine. "We will not accept a situation where persons believe that they can carry illegal firearms, discharge a weapon in communities, intimidate citizens, and take human life without consequences," he stated.

Source: Searchlight SVG