The Jamaica Police Federation is set to begin the process of selecting a new chairman following the promotion of its leader, Sergeant Arleen McBean, to the senior ranks of the Jamaica Constabulary Force as an assistant superintendent of police (ASP).

McBean’s elevation marks the end of her tenure leading the organisation that represents rank-and-file police personnel, creating a vacancy at the top of the federation and paving the way for an election to determine her successor.

The long-time federation executive was among several dedicated cops promoted to the senior ranks at a ceremony hosted by Commissioner of Police Dr Kevin Blake at his office in St Andrew on Thursday.

Also, promoted to the senior ranks are Assistant Commissioner of Police DeVaughn Colquhoun (Supernumerary), Head of the JCF’s Corporate Services, as well as Senior Superintendents Adrian Hamilton and Arielle Brown Blake, alongside Superintendents Keisha Oakley and Alfred McDonald.

Further strengthening the JCF’s officer ranks are Deputy Superintendents Howard Wilks, Nicholas Shorter and Arlene Robinson Johnson, as well as Assistant Superintendent Robert Bailey.

The police federation in a statement congratulating ASP McBean, noted that she has served the organisation “with distinction in various leadership capacities over many years and has made an invaluable contribution to the welfare and well-being of rank-and-file members, both past and present.

“Her dedication, commitment, and unwavering advocacy on behalf of our members have earned her the respect and admiration of colleagues throughout the Jamaica Constabulary Force,” the federation said.

“We wish her every success in her new role and pray for God’s continued guidance, favour, and abundant blessings as she embarks on this new chapter of service,” it added.