WHEN Jamaica Police Federation chair, Sergeant Arleen McBean stood to pay tribute at the thanksgiving service for the life of Detective Sergeant Kevin Mayne, she expressed anger that the man who shot and killed him was at the same hospital as her beloved colleague.

In a call to action for better treatment of police officers, she urged the implementation of protocols at hospitals for members of Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) injured or killed by criminals.

“It is painful as a police federation when we go to hospitals and the man who just shot the police is in the same ward where the police are being treated. The Jamaica Police Federation uses this symbolic occasion to renew the call for a protocol to be developed for servicemen and women in public hospitals,” said McBean.

The thanksgiving service for the detective sergeant was held at Eastwood Park New Testament Church of God in St Andrew on Saturday.

In her tribute McBean described Mayne as a “fearless crime-fighter” and astute investigator who ensured that the required principles of investigation were always properly executed, and someone who should not have been placed in such close proximity to his killer.

According to an official police report, Mayne was fatally shot at Half-Way Tree Police Station in St Andrew on July 22. He was escorting businessman Deon Singh, owner of Deon Singh Auto on Hagley Park Road in St Andrew, from the nearby Criminal Court when Singh reportedly grabbed a policeman’s gun and shot the detective sergeant, before reportedly shooting himself.

Yesterday’s thanksgiving service was one fit for a hero and Jamaican patriot, his coffin draped in the country’s flag and flanked by colleagues who paid homage to the fallen policeman.

The solemn occasion was infused with uplifting music and heartfelt tributes of song and speech as family, friends, and fellow officers remembered a dedicated servant.

State minister in the Ministry of National Security Juliet Cuthbert-Flynn, representing Minister of National Security Dr Horace Chang, said Mayne demonstrated the true essence of a Jamaican police officer, even during the tragic and bizarre incident that led to his demise.

“The death of a police officer in the line of duty always reminds us of the fact that the men and women of the Jamaica Constabulary Force daily put themselves in the line of fire in order to ensure the safety and security of the rest of us. As a society we will forever be indebted to them for their service and their sacrifice,” said Cuthbert-Flynn.

“Through the clouds of grief and overwhelming sadness with this time, I pray that the legacy of Detective Sergeant Mayne’s… courage, dedication, and commitment will continue to spur you and spur all the colleague officers and friends to press on,” she said.

Rory Martin, acting senior superintendent of police and commanding officer for the St Andrew Division and who eulogised Mayne, shared that the detective sergeant was a decorated hero who received 18 commendations — 14 of which were for efficient and dedicated service to the JCF and three for firearm and ammunition seizures. He was also credited for his service during the 2010 operation in Tivoli Gardens that led to the arrest of notorious gang leader Christopher “Dudus” Coke.

“Many join this profession and serve with distinction but only a few excel above the rest. Detective Sergeant Mayne operated in this world every day being above the rest,” said Martin.

“His dedication and passion for his work were eminent in everything he did. Through his actions, he demonstrated what it means to be a police officer,” he declared.

Natalie Ferron, in a heartfelt remembrance of her cousin, shared that he was a true church baby who loved music. She recalled that he was always at home or in the studio crafting his next masterpiece with a seriousness that made everyone chuckle.

“His passion for music was unstoppable, and even though he became a police officer I would like to think that there was a part of him that thought him coulda still buss,” she said, smiling.

A devoted father to four children, she said he loved them with a depth and devotion that was clear to see.

“He was a protector and their guide, and they will remain his enduring legacy. Long after we’ve stopped sharing stories about him, his children will carry him in their hearts, and they will never forget how important he was to them,” said Ferron.

“In the days, months, and years to come, his memory will continue to live on through the stories we share, the memories we hold dear, and most importantly, his children, his enduring legacy,” she added.

A member of the JCF’s batch 1197, Mayne was also remembered by his batchmate, Superintendent Kenneth Chin, as an officer who gave sterling service and was always ready to tackle the challenges that came his way.

Reflecting on his colleague’s accomplishments in the JCF, he said, “Our batch is honoured to have been a part of his life. We hold dear his memories as we continue to hold his family in our thoughts.”

Extending condolence to the family, he said batch members have put together a package to assist them financially during this difficult time.

Detective Sergeant Kevin Mayne is remembered as a dedicated servant who spent 27 years in the police force. Photo: Joseph Wellington

Jamaica Police Federation chair, Sergeant Arleen Mcbean remembers Detective Sergeant Mayne as an astute leader while paying tribute at his thanksgiving service yesterday. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Jhanae (left) and Kevian Mayne, the daughters of Detective Sergeant Kevin Mayne, read the second lession at the thanksgiving service to celebrate their father’s life on Saturday. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)

Commisioner of Police Kevin Blake (left) and Juliet Cuthbert Flynn, minister of state in the Ministry of National Security, sing the opening hymn at the thanksgiving service to celebrate the life of Detective Sergant Kevin Mayne yesterday.

Final salute: Pall-bearers carry the casket bearing the remains of Detective Sergeant Kevin Mayne at the thanksgiving service celebrating his life, at Eastwood Park New Testament Church of God in St Andrew yesterday. (Photo: Joseph Wellington)