KINGSTON, Jamaica – A member of the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) is before the courts in relation to an alleged assault of an inmate at the Horizon Adult Remand Centre in February of last year.

Correctional Officer Romel Wilkie appeared before the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court on Tuesday, charged with causing grievous bodily harm with intent contrary to section 20 (1) of the Offences Against the Person Act.

It is alleged that on February 26, 2025, the inmate was hit in the face, in the vicinity of his ear, by the Wilkie during a cell search for contraband. Medical evidence reportedly indicated that the complainant’s left eardrum was ruptured.

Following an investigation by the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM), the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) ruled that Wilkie should be charged with the offence.

Wilkie is set for trial in the matter beginning on April 14, 2026.

According to INDECOM, since January 2024, 56 law enforcement officers have been charged in relation to incidents investigated by the commission. Of the total number charged, six have been members of the DCS.