Deputy Commissioner J. Magaleno to retire after 37 years of service

It was announced this week that Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mr. James Magdaleno is retiring from the Police Department after 37 years of service. Douglas Hyde, the department's National Youth Program Coordinator, made the announcement this week, and express the department's appreciation to this Senior Police Officer who will officially retire on his 55th birthday, Monday, July 25, 2011.

Magdaleno joined the Belize Police Force at the age of 18, in November 1973 and worked his way up through the ranks. He attended the Police Training School in Ladyville and passed out as a member of Squad #24.

He has worked in every district and in every branch of the Department except for Special Branch and Traffic.

His last posting was as Commander of the Orange Walk Formation which he took over in 2003. He later transferred to Police Headquarters in Belmopan, where he was put in charge of the National Crimes Investigation Branch. Later he was appointed one of four Deputy Commissioners of Police.

Commissioner of Police Crispin Jeffries who has already reached the retirement age of 55, is ripe for retirement, but continues to serve as the country's Top Cop on short term contract until a replacement is found.

The Reporter