Alden Elston Dawson

Alden Dawson, 53 years, has devoted over three decades to the Belize Police Department, building a distinguished career marked by significant achievements and leadership.
He joined the Police Department on June 12th, 1986, following graduation from the Police Training Academy, ending of June 1986. His first assignment was with the Eastern Division at the Queen Street Patrol Branch, where he served as a Police Constable for six months.
Alden’s journey through the ranks began with a transfer to the Supreme Court as a Court Orderly, a role he held for nearly two years. Then moved to the San Pedro Police Station, continuing his service as a Constable for two years before returning to the Eastern Division. There, took on the role of Court Orderly in the Prosecution Branch for 1 year and 7 months, followed by a significant position in the Special Branch as an Intelligence Officer, overseeing operations across several districts for six years.
His career took a notable turn when he was transferred to the Crimes Investigation Branch, where his skills and dedication led to promotions through the ranks of Corporal, Sergeant, and Inspector.
Alden’s leadership capabilities were further highlighted when he was appointed Deputy Officer Commanding in Orange Walk for one year, followed by Officer Commanding Dangriga in 2005.
In 2007, he was promoted to Assistant Superintendent, and became the Officer in Charge of the Eastern Division. Alden’s tenure in this role was marked by a dramatic 51% reduction in crime within a year at Precinct 1, which was the most difficult area to deal with at that time.
His achievements earned him a promotion to Sr. Superintendent of Police in 2014, where he briefly covered Precinct 2, before becoming Deputy Officer Commanding the Eastern Division, South Side.
In 2017, he was appointed Regional Commander for Region 3, Belize Rural Area. His leadership continued to shine as he returned to Belize City in January 2019 as Assistant Commissioner of Police and Officer Commanding the Eastern Division. Alden’s strategic oversight during this period further solidified his reputation within the department.
In November 2020, he was transferred to Belmopan as Officer in Charge of Administration. In 2022, he returned to the Crimes Investigation Branch as the Head of the National Crimes Investigation Branch, a role in which he continues to serve.
Alden career reflects a profound commitment to law enforcement and public safety. His extensive experience, coupled with leadership and problem-solving skills, has significantly impacted the Belize Police Department and the communities served.

**Reflections on a Career in Policing: A Message to Families**
Becoming a police officer is often viewed as a noble and prestigious calling, even if it is sometimes misunderstood by those outside the profession. For me, the desire to serve as a police officer has been a long-held aspiration, one I kept close to my heart during my youth. I was mindful not to share my ambitions widely because I feared that my mother, concerned for my future, might dissuade me from pursuing this path.
Through my experiences, I have come to understand the importance of encouraging our children to follow their dreams, whatever they may be. To families and parents, I offer this piece of advice: support your children in their aspirations, even if those goals diverge from your expectations or traditional paths. Instead of discouraging them, focus on imparting strong moral values, respect, and a sense of civic duty.
Teach them the principles of integrity, dedication, and responsibility. These values will guide them in any profession they choose and help them grow into the individuals they are meant to be. Embracing their ambitions, while nurturing their character, will enable them to realize their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society.
Remember, a supportive environment can transform aspirations into achievements. Let us celebrate and encourage our children’s dreams, for they hold the potential to become who they are destined to be.