A reduction in serious crimes in Clarendon last year has being described as the foundation for an even greater reduction in crime across the parish going forward.

Last year the parish recorded 69 murders, compared to 105 in 2023.

Addressing members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force at a service at the Grace Baptist Church in Clarendon on Sunday, Assistant Commissioner of Police Calvin Allen noted that the division recorded a clear-up rate of almost 70 per cent last year.

“I must point out this very significant point, Clarendon recording 69 murders is the lowest it has been in the past 10 years…although we had the serious tragedy of Cherry Tree Lane,” said Allen in reference to the August 11 fatal shooting of eight people and the injuring of nine others during an attack by gunmen in that community.

Allen pointed out that the Clarendon police keep in touch with the families in the Cherry Tree Lane area, beyond the hardcore aspect of policing.

“Clarendon played a significant role in the 19 per cent reduction of murders overall. So, as we relentlessly move forward in 2025, we remain forthright, we remain committed to our oath of office to keep more people alive in 2025,” Allen told the congregation.

In the meantime head of the Clarendon police, Acting Senior Superintendent Shane McCalla, urged the men and women under his command to be strong and courageous.

“That’s my charge to you, do not be afraid, do not be discouraged. I know that sometimes when the pressure reach us we get discouraged and ask the Lord, ‘why me?’ Even with the Cherry tree incident, when I went there I asked the Lord ‘why me?’ But in those down times and with the support of my team, I reflect on the
Bible verse Joshua 1 verse 9 ‘[Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go]’ and I use that as my courage,” said McCalla.

Meanwhile Mayor of May Pen Joel Williams thanked members of the police force for “the tremendous job they did last year”.

“I assure the leadership of the Clarendon division, and by extension the other divisions, you have my fullest support in fighting crime, I know this is no easy job but where you have taken us from in 2023 to the end of 2024, we have much to give God thanks for.

”I am confident that you will be redoubling your efforts and I am confident that you will go beyond another reduction this year,” said Williams.