Dear Editor,

The recent rhetoric of Police Federation Chairman Sergeant Raymond Wilson at the funeral of a slain police woman, and MP Damion Crawford’s blasting of the importance of the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) has highlighted the short-sighted approach to crime-fighting by some in influential positions.

The Jamaica Constabulary Force’s (JCF) record as it relates to human rights is dismal — and that’s being kind. The many allegations of police abuse and killings makes a body such as INDECOM very important for oversight purposes and to hold the JCF accountable. The activities of the best police forces in the world are scrutinised, and the JCF is nowhere near the best with its lack of resources and underpaid and demotivated members. Why should it be exempt from being investigated?

Wilson seems to be in denial as it relates to the true state of the JCF, as, by all indications, there are members of the force whose acts are downright criminal. May I remind Sergeant Wilson that one of his colleagues was just recently shot while trying to rob a businessman? Or should I remind him of the numerous officers who have been charged with corruption, or where sting operations have been used to catch them in criminal behaviour.

If Sergeant Wilson and Comrade Crawford need more proof that the JCF needs cleaning, and INDECOM is necessary, then I am worried for all citizens, as maybe we must all be brutalised before INDECOM’s necessity is recognised.

The police force cannot speak from two sides of its mouth. It cannot call for its members to abide by the guidelines of the force and the laws of the land, but yet criticise, in the most absurd way, INDECOM’s role in ensuring that law and order is upheld by the force.

I must say I am not surprised by Damion Crawford, as I guess his stance is a reflection, in some way, of his party, as they too have a problem with bodies set up to give oversight to important things; the efforts against the Office of the Contractor General come quickly to mind.

Sensible citizens understand and support the role of INDECOM, even if we fall in the category of the “articulate minority”.

Javid Brown

Ocho Rios, St Ann

javidbrown@gmail.com