PHILIPSBURG:--- On Saturday August 8th, 2015 the Minister of Justice the Honorable Dennis Richardson received the disheartening news that Officer Benjamin had passed away at the Sint Maarten Medical Center as a direct result of the severe gunshot injuries he sustained while exercising his duties and protecting the residents and visitors of Sint Maarten. Minister Richardson and Prime Minister Mr. Marcel Gumbs immediately visited the Medical Center to pay their respects to Officer Benjamin and tried to comfort the many family members and colleagues who were clearly in soul wrenching pain from the passing of Benjamin.
The Minister and the entire Ministry of Justice extend their deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the late Officer Benjamin. Officer Benjamin’s shooting and his subsequent passing have come as a severe shock to his family, the Sint Maarten Police Force and the Community at large and will undoubtedly have an effect on many lives for a very long time to come. The whole community is hurting as a result of the death of this broadly beloved, respected and dedicated officer of the law.
Officer Benjamin who has fallen in the line of duty demonstrating bravery above and beyond the call of duty, will be buried with official honors and with full support of the Government of Sint Maarten. Over the coming days the Minister and his staff will be coordinating closely with the Sint Maarten Police Force and the Benjamin family in preparation of Officer Benjamin’s funeral.
The Minister is extremely proud to point out that, in spite of the pain and anguish the men and women of the Sint Maarten Police Force have been faced with this past week, the Force continues to embody professionalism and is making strides in resolving this case while continuing to serve and protect the Sint Maarten community and the island’s many visitors.
Minister Richardson is proud of the Police Force of Sint Maarten and is honored to be able to represent their cause as the Minister of Justice of Sint Maarten.
