Bermuda Police History

From its humble beginnings over twelve decades ago, the Service has now grown into a small, sophisticated organization the match of any similar Force throughout the world.
The history of the Police Service since its establishment in 1879 has effectively been the history of Bermuda. Police officers have been involved in practically every major event affecting this Island. Like every other organization, the Service has enjoyed periods of high public esteem and major successes counter balanced with times of sustained criticism and unpopularity.

For your convenience we have broken down our history into three major sections. Please take the time to enjoy the information provided, however please note that the opinions expressed in this website are not necessarily the official views of the Bermuda Police, the Commissioner of Police or the Editor.Reproduction in whole or part of any article or photograph appearing in this website is expressly forbidden without permission of the Police Service.

• The Early Years ~ 1609 - 1929
• The Years of Change ~ 1930 - 1979
• The Transition Years ~ 1980 - 1999

Historical Review by Sgt. Chris Wilcox, September 1999 **This review was reproduced from the publication,
'Historical Review of the Bermuda Police Service 1879 - 1999.' Edited, designed and produced by Sgt. Alexander MacDonald.