WESTMORELAND, Jamaica — Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ) says it stands in solidarity with Merica Frazer, the mother of Mario Deane as it calls for the wheels of justice to turn faster, following the end of the trial surrounding Deane’s death.

“This long-overdue decision brings a measure of accountability in a case that has come to symbolise the deep systemic failures within Jamaica’s justice and law enforcement systems,” the advocacy group said.

Following what JFJ describes as a harrowing eleven-year wait for justice, Frazer on Thursday heard the verdict convicting the three police officers, Corporal Elaine Stewart and District Constables Marlon Grant and Juliana Clevon, with manslaughter and misconduct in public office.

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The group pointed to the delayed sentencing which has been postponed to July 1, 2025, due to the unavailability of the judge as evidence of the “troubling reality that administrative scheduling constraints continue to dictate the pace of justice, even after a guilty verdict has been rendered”.

“This case underscores the painful reality that too many victims of state violence and their families continue to face — a justice system marked by protracted delays, lack of transparency and insufficient redress. JFJ remains resolute in its commitment to advocating for victims of state abuse whose cases have languished for years without closure. We will continue to press for reforms that ensure timely justice, stronger accountability mechanisms, and the protection of every Jamaican’s right to life and dignity,” JFJ promised.

It also commended Frazer’s courage and resilience in her pursuit of justice for over a decade.

“Swift justice is not a privilege; it is a fundamental right, without which accountability loses its meaning and public trust in the system erodes,” the group said.