PHILIPSBURG:--- The Police Force of Sint Maarten (KPSM) is proud to announce the launch of the KPSM Youth Wing Initiative, a community-driven program designed to guide at-risk youth on the island toward positive opportunities and brighter futures.
Recognizing the growing social challenges faced by young people on both the Dutch and French sides of the island, KPSM is taking a proactive approach to prevention. The Youth Wing is not a policing program—it is a bridge to connect troubled youth with the right social partners, organizations, and resources to help them make better life choices.
A Mission Rooted in Community Support
The KPSM Youth Wing is built on a straightforward idea: prevention through connection. By leveraging KPSM’s extensive network of community relationships, the initiative aims to:
• Identify youth who may be heading down the wrong path.
• Connect them with social services, youth groups, churches, sports clubs, and counselors.
• Offer positive alternatives and support systems.
• Help families find the assistance they need.
• Build trust between young people and the police.
• Prevent crime before it happens.
“Our role is not to replace social workers or counselors,” said E.S. "Joe" Josepha, Head of the Department of Communication at KPSM. “Instead, we want to ensure that youths are directed to the right people and organizations who are trained to guide them. This is a community effort, and we welcome everyone—parent groups, NGOs, churches, sports leaders, and mentors—to join us in this mission.”
Addressing Public Concerns
KPSM acknowledges the public’s initial questions and concerns following the program’s launch and appreciates the feedback. The Youth Wing is not about enforcement or criminalization. It is about prevention, guidance, and support.
“This initiative is bigger than any one individual,” emphasized Josepha. “It’s about giving the youth of Sint Maarten a real pathway to make better choices—a mission that is greater than any personal opinions or criticisms.”
A Call to Action: Join Us in Guiding Our Youth
KPSM is committed to transparency, community involvement, and partnership. As the Youth Wing pilot program progresses, KPSM will:
• Share regular updates.
• Work alongside community organizations.
• Listen to public feedback.
• Adjust and strengthen the program as needed.
The Youth Wing is not just a KPSM effort—it is a community effort. Protecting Sint Maarten means investing in the next generation. Together, we can provide our youth with better choices, more substantial support, and real chances to succeed.
For more information or to get involved, please contact:
E.S. "Joe" Josepha
Head of Department of Communication, KPSM