Roland Peterson facts for kids

Roland Wilbert Peterson (born October 31, 1941 – died December 11, 2017) was an important person from Aruba. He was a police officer, a writer, and a poet. He is best known for helping to create the new Aruba Police Force when Aruba became its own country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands in 1986.

Roland Peterson: A Life of Service

Roland Peterson was born in Aruba on October 31, 1941. He grew up to become a dedicated public servant. His work helped shape the future of Aruba's law enforcement. He was also a talented writer and poet.

Building the Aruba Police Force

In 1986, Aruba became a self-governing country. It was still part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. At this time, Roland Peterson was given a very important job. He was asked to create the new Aruba Police Force. This was a big responsibility.

Peterson became the first Commissioner of this new police department. He led the force from 1986 to 1989. In 1987, he traveled to the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia. There, he completed special training. This training focused on law enforcement and how to stop terrorism.

Later Career and Contributions

After his time with the police force, Peterson continued to serve his country. He became the head of a government agency called DOOV. This agency later became known as DIMAS. DIMAS helps manage the integration of foreigners in Aruba.

Peterson also worked as Aruba's representative for Interpol. Interpol is an international police organization. It helps police forces around the world work together.

His Final Years

Roland Peterson passed away at his home in Aruba on December 11, 2017. He was 76 years old. He had been ill for a long time with Parkinson's disease. He was survived by his wife, Martha Peterson-Hagen. He also left behind his two children, Angelique Peterson and Roland Peterson Jr.