HANOVER, Jamaica — Custos Rotulorum of Hanover, Lennox Anderson-Jackson says the parish which was once marred by high crime statistics has seen a 76 per cent decrease in murders year-to-date when compared with the corresponding period in 2024.

Anderson-Jackson, addressing the Jamaica Police Federation 82nd Annual Joint Central Conference at the Princess Grand Jamaica Hotel in Green Island on Tuesday, suggested that Hanover is now the safest parish to live in.

“So, in fact, Hanover has seen a 76 per cent and a 68 per cent decrease in murder and gunfights, respectively, this year compared to 2024, which, along with other things, makes Hanover the safest parish to live in,” stated Anderson-Jackson.

He said this was achieved under the “auspicious and outstanding” leadership of the Hanover Police Division commander, Superintendent Andrew Nish.

“[The] Hanover Police Division has been performing exceptionally well with notable improvements in crime prevention, community policing initiatives, swift and effective response speech, notable improvement in crime prevention, community policing initiatives, swift and effective responses to incidents,” stated Anderson-Jackson.

The custos further argued that the efforts of the police have resulted in greater public confidence and a safer environment for all residents. This is something that the custos is hoping to maintain through increased resources.

“Therefore, going forward, I would like the number of police to be increased in Hanover, particularly in the Lucea community area, so as to maintain this particular trend,” he said.

The custos also cited what he said was the excellent relationship that currently exists in the parish between the police, the Justices of the Peace (JPs) and the citizens in general.

“This partnership has fostered a spirit of cooperation, mutual respect and shared responsibility for the well-being of our communities,” stated Anderson-Jackson.

“All Justices of the Peace actively support the police in mediation efforts, community outreach programs and civic education, further strengthening the bond between law enforcement and the public,” he added.

Anderson-Jackson noted that the parish will continue to give the police its unwavering support.

“Hanover remains committed to being a parish that supports the rule of law, respects the work of our law enforcement officers and fosters a climate of mutual respect and dignity between the police and the people,” he said.

Meanwhile, he also shared words of encouragement to the police federation, noting that, “unity must remain the anchor of your internal strength and a bridge to your external alliances. As custos, I stand ready to support this transformation.”

“Let me use this opportunity to commend the leadership of the Federation, past and present, for keeping the spirit of dialogue alive and for championing of your members with integrity and results to our police officers,” stated Anderson-Jackson.

The two-day conference is being held under the theme: Embracing Transformation through Partnership and Unity.

— Anthony Lewis