The LASCO Chin Foundation and the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) are set to honour the outstanding service of scores of cops. The event, now in its 24th year, will take place on Friday, October 25, 2024, at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel under the theme, ‘Transforming the Present, Securing the Future’.

According to the organisers in a press release, this year’s awards ceremony is particularly significant as it coincides with the JCF’s 157th Anniversary, and to commemorate the milestone, 157 cops, “representing every corner of Jamaica”, will be recognised.

The officers have been selected for their exemplary services, dedication, and contribution to the nation. Among these outstanding individuals, six are to be nominated to compete for the highly coveted Chairman’s Award, the release stated.

The 2024 ceremony also marks the 75th anniversary of the inclusion of women in the JCF, adding another layer of significance to the event. Last year, Constable Jayann Raymond received the Chairman’s Award, being the second woman constable from Area 5 to cop the top award.

Professor Rosalea Hamilton, CEO of the LASCO Chin Foundation, highlighted the enduring impact of the LASCO/JCF Saluting Our Heroes Awards and also spoke to the evolving role of women in the JCF.

“For 24 years, these awards have not only recognised professionalism and dedication of our officers but have also underscored the vital role they play in safeguarding our communities. This year, as we celebrate 75 years of women in the force, we are reminded of the trailblazers who paved the way and the remarkable women who continue to lead with courage today. The LASCO Chin Foundation is proud to stand alongside the JCF in honouring these heroes, whose service makes Jamaica stronger every day,” Hamilton said.

Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Charmine Shand also reflected on the theme of this year’s event and the remarkable milestones being celebrated.

“The theme for this year’s LASCO/JCF Saluting Our Heroes Awards, captures the essence of our mission. As we celebrate 157 years of service to Jamaica, and 75 years since women were first allowed to join the ranks, we stand at a pivotal moment in our history. It speaks to our commitment to evolving and adapting to meet the challenges of today while laying the foundation for a stronger, more resilient force in the future,” ACP Shand remarked.

She added, “I am proud of the strides we have made, particularly in advancing the roles of women within the JCF. We have often heard the saying ‘behind every strong man is a strong woman’ but I like to say, ‘beside every strong man is a strong woman’ and for the first time, three women have been promoted to the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police at once, myself being one of them – a testament to the dedication and excellence of our female officers. As we honour 157 outstanding officers this year we also acknowledge our trailblazers and the event is not only a recognition of our past and present achievements but a call to all our officers to continue striving for excellence as we build the future of security in Jamaica.”

The LASCO/JCF Police of the Year Awards Programme, established in 2000, seeks to publicly recognise the professionalism and commitment of the JCF’s members. The selection process occurs at three levels: Divisional, Area and National. Nominees are evaluated based on their work ethic, relationships with the public and team members, community involvement and other social initiatives, professional knowledge on operational procedures, communication skills, ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing and, their awareness of national and international affairs.

The winner of the Chairman’s trophy will receive a cash award of $175,000, along with an array of LASCO gift prizes. The first runner-up will be awarded $125,000, while the second runner-up will receive $100,000 and $75,000 each for the other three finalists.

The LASCO/JCF Saluting Our Heroes Awards is part of the LASCO Chin Foundation’s broader commitment to social impact through education, national security, health and wellness, and environmental development within communities.