THE Guyana Police Force is mourning the loss of one of its most dedicated and pioneering officers, Woman Assistant Superintendent Althea Scipio, who passed away on March 18, 2025.
A funeral service was held Tuesday for the late Assistant Superintendent Althea Scipio at Love and Faith Church in Sophia.
Her departure marks the end of a remarkable career dedicated to service, leadership, and community transformation.

Born on November 17, 1987, Scipio displayed a commitment to excellence from an early age. She graduated with nine CXC subjects in 2004 before earning a degree in Chemistry from the University of Guyana—a significant achievement, particularly for women in her field at the time. Her academic prowess became the foundation of her trailblazing career in the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

Scipio’s journey in law enforcement began on July 29, 2008, when she joined the Special Constabulary, working in the Criminal Investigations Department’s (CID) Forensic Laboratory.
By January 5, 2009, she transitioned to the Regular Force, holding the regulation number 20617. Her career progression saw her posted to Regional Division #4A as Officer in Charge of the Secretariat and Management Information Unit, where she made significant contributions.
Her professional milestones include participation in the Junior Officers’ Course No. 20 (2010) and specialised training in Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence with the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Internationally, she represented Guyana in the Women in Law Enforcement Leadership Training in El Salvador (2016) and was certified in SKYE Coaching Methodology under USAID (2015).

However, it was her work in community engagement that truly defined her impact. In 2022, she was appointed Officer in Charge of the Community Relations Department, leading numerous initiatives focused on youth empowerment and social development. Among her notable projects were the Miss Youth Ambassador Pageant, the Guyana Police Force Annual Spelling Bee, the Men on Mission Youth Camp, and the Farmers’ Market and hamper distribution programmes, conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture.
Colleagues remember Scipio as a tireless and compassionate leader. “She was loyal and committed to her office and team,” they reflected. “Her projects benefitted youths, teen mothers, the unemployed, and even police officers through partnerships with faith-based and business communities.”
Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, in an emotional tribute, acknowledged the profound loss. “In times of peace, we should not be burying our children—especially those who are our peacekeepers,” he stated. He emphasised that Scipio was a trailblazer, possibly the first female scientist to work in forensics within the CID. “She could have worked anywhere, but she chose the police force. She chose service.”

Offering condolences, Minister Benn added, “My deepest sympathies to her loved ones, from myself, my wife Dina, and son Robeson. May her service and example continue to inspire others.”
Commissioner of Police, Mr. Clifton Hicken, also paid tribute to Scipio’s dedication, describing her as “a model of professionalism and commitment.” He highlighted her significant role in bridging the gap between law enforcement and the public through her outreach and mentorship efforts.
Beyond her professional obligations, Scipio dedicated time to volunteer work, particularly with the Guyana Police Force Football Team, showcasing her love for grassroots sports and youth development.

As Minister Benn aptly stated, “We should work to let other women rise in the Force following her example. We must be more welcoming to women in all our environments.”
Though her physical presence is no longer with us, her legacy of strength, compassion, and service lives on in the lives she touched and the communities she helped build. As Commissioner Hicken poignantly expressed, “May this tribute serve as a reminder that Ms. Althea Scipio will never be forgotten.”
Her absence leaves a void in the Guyana Police Force, among her colleagues, friends, and, most profoundly, her family. Yet, her unwavering dedication and exemplary service ensure that her light will continue to shine in the communities she uplifted and the hearts she inspired.