ST ELIZABETH, Jamaica — For the second consecutive year, inmates at the Black River police station lockup in St Elizabeth benefited from a pre-Father’s Day celebration, allowing them to see their children for the first time in years.

The initiative, which is the brainchild of St Elizabeth commander Superintendent Coleridge Minto, has been hailed by relatives of six inmates as a positive step towards rehabilitation and family support, benefiting individuals, especially children.

“We come together not only to celebrate fathers, but to acknowledge the importance of compassion, understanding and the human connection within the criminal justice system. Traditionally, Father’s Day is a time to honour the love, guidance and strength that fathers provide,” Minto said at the event on Friday.

The police chief, who has been lauded for his creative approach and communication skills, explained the significance of allowing inmates to bond with their children.

“Today we recognise the importance of supporting families, especially those who find themselves in difficult circumstances, and so despite these challenges we have extended this gesture to these fathers to share a few minutes and to connect with their children despite the physical barriers that may separate them,” he said.

“This event is a testament to treating those in our custody with dignity and allowing children and spouses to spend precious moments (with inmates) together,” added Minto.

The event, which was commended last year by Justice Minister Delroy Chuck, has even allowed inmates who did not see their children after they were born.

“This day is a reflection of our values, our compassion and respect and the belief in rehabilitation,” Minto said.

He recalled a conversation with an inmate who expressed gratitude for the initiative, as he hadn’t seen his child for three years.

Grateful relatives also lauded Superintendent Minto for the initiative.

“Thank God for Mr Minto for what he has done for Father’s Day, it is the first I have ever seen this. I never see it yet in Montego Bay. My nephew’s three children came and got to hug him and hold him,” a woman who identified herself as Neronie said.

Another woman whose partner is an inmate shared a similar sentiment.

“I came today, but I was here last year, and I am grateful to the police that my daughter could see her father. I thank the police very much and I hope they can continue to keep on doing their job work. I thank Mr Minto for everything that he has done,” she said.

— Kasey Williams