The Gendarmerie of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon: A History of Changes

Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, a French archipelago in the North Atlantic, has a unique history of law enforcement dating back to the early 20th century. The Gendarmerie Nationale, an elite police force, was responsible for maintaining order and security on the islands.

Early Years (1906-1910)

• In September 1906, the gendarme’s size was reduced when Langlade lost its gendarme.
• By 1910, the strength of the Gendarmerie consisted of:
  • One sergeant
  • One corporal
  • Eight gendarmes on Saint-Pierre
  • Miquelon and Île-aux-Chiens retained their gendarmes

Economic Decline and Reductions (1925-1934)

• The collapse of the economy in St. Pierre at the turn of the century led to a reduction in the Gendarmerie’s strength.
• By 1925, the official newspaper reported that the Gendarmerie consisted of a staff of eleven.
• The number continued to decline, with Langlade losing its gendarme and Miquelon’s position being closed.

Wartime and Post-War Changes (1936-1968)

• During World War II, the position on Langlade was restored in 1943.
• After the war, the size of the detachment increased to ten in 1946.
• However, the Territorial Brigade of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon was downsized to 13 gendarmes by 1997.

Modernization and Structural Changes (2000-2023)

• In the 21st century, the Gendarmerie underwent significant changes.
• The Company of Gendarmerie of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon was commanded by a lieutenant-colonel in 2001, replacing a squadron leader.
• By 2002, the Gendarmerie comprised three brigades:
  • Group of the Company Commandant
  • Territorial Brigade of Saint-Pierre
  • Territorial Brigade of Miquelon

Current Structure and Personnel

As of 2023, the Gendarmerie Nationale in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon consists of:

• One headquarters providing logistical and administrative services
• Two territorial brigades:
  • One for Saint-Pierre
  • One for Miquelon
• One investigation brigade on Saint-Pierre

A total of 32 personnel are assigned to the Gendarmerie, including:

• A captain who serves as Police Commissioner and public prosecutor
• Eight gendarmes from the Gendarmerie Maritime deploy with the French Navy patrol boat Fulmar

In 2002, a website dedicated to the gendarmes of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon was created to commemorate their service and dedication to maintaining law and order on the islands.