GOVERNMENT’S investment in the transformation of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), with measures put in place to strengthen investigation and policing methods, not only aims to improve crime fighting but to build the confidence of citizens in policing, according to Dr Horace Chang.

Dr Horace, the national security minister, in making the point in an interview with
JIS News, said that earning the trust of citizens is key to effective policing.

“If a man commits a crime we have to apprehend and prosecute him, but there is a path to get there. The police must not only be provided with the right tools to be able to quickly apprehend the perpetrators — meaning investigative tools and mobility and communication — but they also have to win the trust of the community,” he said.

Minister Chang credited the JCF on strides made in improving public perception, thanks in part to its online presence.

The JCF made history in 2023, becoming the first law enforcement entity to be nominated for and win the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC) Excellence in Marketing Award.

The force was recognised for unprecedented work in transforming stakeholder interaction, and its innovative approach to digital engagement.

The JCF’s ongoing social media campaign, urging persons to share anonymous tips on illicit activities, was credited with enabling Crime Stop to pay out a record-breaking $10.2 million in rewards.

Dr Chang said that the professionalism of the police in the community and how they operate at the police stations “must be beyond question”.

He added: “The transformation not only involves increased numbers but providing a different approach to training, and the overall change in culture where we expect to devote the highest level of professionalism.

“The police have a presence in every community, or more communities than any other government organisation, so we have the presence of authority — and exercised effectively it becomes a strong tool for transformation.”