Four Bermuda Police Service (BPS) staff were officially recognised by the British Overseas Territories (BOT) Women in Policing Network for their outstanding contributions, during an 11am Thursday, 10th April 2025 online ceremony.

The awardees, from Anguilla, Bermuda, Falkland Islands, Gibraltar, St. Helena and the Sovereign Base Areas (Cyprus), were nominated by their respective law enforcement agency and selected by an independent overseas committee, for their efforts in recognising and supporting women in policing.

Expressing delight in this international recognition, Commissioner of Police Darrin Simons stated, “I'm absolutely thrilled to share that four of our own were recognised for their incredible work, dedication and talent, embodying the values and commitment we strive for in the BPS every day. These individuals represent the high calibre we have within the BPS, and their achievements reflect positively on all of us. This thoroughly well-deserved recognition makes me incredibly proud to lead this Service.”

The BPS recipients are:

Detective Chief Inspector Derricka Burns: Winner of the Inspirational Woman Award! Her resilience, leadership, and initiative in launching the BPS Women in Policing Network are truly inspiring.

Inspector Cerepha Bridgeman: Highly Commended for the Leadership Award! Her deep commitment to community engagement, youth mentorship, and supporting vulnerable groups really stands out.

Mrs. Julie Trott: Received special recognition for her outstanding contributions, particularly her exceptional leadership in complex procurement processes, project management, and stepping up to guide the BPS Technology Department.

Chief Inspector Andrew Smalling: Highly Commended for the HeForShe Award! He was recognised for his consistent, positive efforts in championing equality and supporting colleagues throughout the Service.

The motto of the BOT Women in Policing Network is: Inspire, Unite, Empower.

Overall, its aim is to develop sustainable and inclusive networks for all women in policing across the British Overseas Territories, ensuring that every woman has a community she can get help from, by creating mentorship opportunities; supporting career development; raising and addressing concerns; while providing international connections through the International Association of Women Police (IAWP) and the National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives (NAWLEE).

In the photo, from left to right: Deputy Commissioner of Police Na’imah Astwood, Mrs. Julie Trott, Detective Chief Inspector Derricka Burns, Inspector Cerepha Bridgeman and Commissioner of Police Darrin Simons.

Not pictured, but participated online: Chief Inspector Andrew Smalling.