TRELAWNY, Jamaica — Justice Minister Delroy Chuck has sharply rebuked justices of the peace (JPs) who place decals identifying themselves as JPs on the dashboards of their motor vehicles, warning that the practice is unnecessary, improper, and increasingly being exploited by criminals.

Noting that the matter undermines law enforcement efforts, the minister said it has become serious enough for him to raise it with Commissioner of Police Dr Kevin Blake.

“You have criminals now buying [decals used by JPs] and putting them in their vehicles; and when the police stop them, they point to it hoping the police won’t search them,” the minister said during a commissioning ceremony for 19 new JPs in Trelawny on Friday. The ceremony was held at Glistening Waters Restaurant in the community of Rock.

Chuck also pointed out that the use of the Government of Jamaica Coat of Arms on such decals is not allowed.

“The protocol office of the prime minister says you should not use the Coat of Arms without permission,” he warned.

The justice minister also used the occasion to once again speak out against what he described as some justices’ growing tendency towards an inflated sense of self-importance.

“Police officers tell me they stop a vehicle and before they can even ask for the papers, the person says, ‘Do you know I’m a JP’” I think it is rude and arrogant!” Chuck chided.

He believes identification through the formal systems in place is enough. Chuck pointed out that under the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA), JPs who already have a national ID will be able to reapply for one reflecting their official designation.

“The most important identification you must have is your national ID, and it will show that you’re a justice of the peace. When you are a person of outstanding character, people will know. You don’t have to tell them,” he told the newly commissioned JPs.

“By your conduct, by how you engage others, by how you speak to others – that is how you will be judged,” he added.