Retirement of Prison Director, Mr. Rudsel Casimiro Ricardo

On March 4, 2013, Mr. Rudsel Casimiro Ricardo officially retired from Government service.

Mr. Ricardo began his career with the government of the Netherland Antilles, in Curacao, in 1972, in service of the ministry of defense. In 1986, he was promoted to prison director at the (Bon Futuro) prison in Koraal Specht, where he worked until the year 2000.

Later that year on November 1, 2000, Mr. Ricardo became the Prison Director at the Point Blanche prison, where he served for more than 12 years until his retirement. On July 3, 2012, Mr. Ricardo celebrated 40 years in government service.

Under Ricardo’s leadership, the prison’s sewing room program was created. This program allowed many prisoners to develop their sewing skills, which proved beneficial to them upon their release from the institution. Other programs initiated by Mr. Ricardo for the inmates were, the agricultural (garden) program, GED program and the literacy program.

Working with little financial means and being understaffed proved to be challenging at times. However; with hard work and dedication, Mr. Ricardo along with his staff were able to ensure that the prison could meet international standards, well-matched to other prisons found in the Caribbean.

The Minister of Justice wishes to thank Mr. Ricardo for his years of service to the justice ministry, and much success in his retirement and any future endeavors.