The Editor, Sir

Our nation’s overworked, overstressed, but most dedicated peace-keepers are overwhelmed with grief and profound sadness. The nature of the job has taken its toll on their lives and well-being of so many in the security forces that only the grace of God can console them.

In recent times, and particularly during Lent, the tragic loss of lives has shaken their will and devotion as crime fighters. Our sympathy goes out to these men and women in uniform and our prayers are continually said for them, even as we celebrate Easter. May the mercy of the Almighty sustain them … more here

The Editor, Sir

I was jolted by Commissioner of Police Owen Ellington’s announcement of a new strategy to rid the police force of psychologically unstable personnel. It seems the proposed strategy came in hindsight, the damage already done. Nevertheless, I have no doubt that we will see a remission, real or imagined, in the levels of crimes associated with the police once the commissioner’s plan is activated properly.

However, the signs of mental instability may appear to be something else, thus making it difficult for even the most illustrious psychiatrist or psychologist to discern. Therefore, one may raise concerns about the effectiveness of such a seemingly ideal plan, given the mere fact that it will not be so easy to identify those who are not mentally stable … more here

The Editor, Sir

I write to laud the efforts of Senior Superintendent Dathan Henry and his team for the tactical and excellent work they have been doing in Clarendon.

In the old days, one could identify a criminal a mile away. Today, thugs come in all forms: a little hunchbacked granny, men in suits, and women in gowns.

It is, therefore, a difficult task for the police; and so, with the limited resources available to law enforcers, the citizens in the parish believe SSP Henry has been one of the most effective leaders … more here

The Editor, Sir

I had the unfortunate experience of having my motor vehicle registration plates removed for a defective tyre while travelling on Spur Tree, Manchester, recently. I am sure that by now most Jamaicans are familiar with these kinds of spot checks.

I was served with a traffic ticket of $7,500. To remedy the problem I had to buy a tyre for $6,500, buy a defective vehicle fitness fee at the tax office for $3,500 before going to the Examination Depot. This is a total of $17,500 … more here

The Editor, Sir

You should be commended for The Gleaner’s editorial of March 17. Your article has clearly depicted that the running of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is not at all business as usual. This is indeed welcome news.

One, without a doubt, senses that stringent measures are being put in place to eradicate bad cops or, at least, reduce their presence in the force significantly … more here

The Editor, Sir

Three weeks ago, I was required to represent a client who was involved in an investigation conducted by the Organised Crime Investigation Division (OCID). This matter concerned a national-security issue and had grave implications for air cargo transit to and from Jamaica. Time was of the essence as delay spelled potential disruption and hardship for several persons and organisations transacting cross-border trade.

This matter was so sensitive that it involved and had implications for the security interests of the United States, Canada, and other countries. It was easy for the investigators in such a scenario to adopt a heavy-handed or overzealous approach which, in the past, has been an unfortunate characteristic of many of the criminal investigations conducted by local law-enforcement agencies. This was refreshingly and emphatically not the case in this instance … more here

The Editor, Sir

The overall strategy of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, long overdue, for reducing homicide and general violence in the inner and outer city is working. A few notable specific elements apart, it deserves compliment. Its success will certainly not last, however, if the communities torn apart by earlier violence are not being rebuilt at the same time … more here

The Editor, Sir

Kindly permit me to comment on a letter, dated February 22, 2011, under the heading ‘Hooligan cops?’ It is very easy for those of us who do not have to put ourselves in danger each working day to be critical of our policemen who generally go to bed wondering if they or members of their family are going to be harmed for the simple act of trying to do a good job … more here

The Editor, Sir

The Sunday Gleaner’s presentation of the New Year’s message of the commissioner of police highlighted a marked reduction in the level of crime in Jamaica. While any success in this area must be applauded, one cannot help but be cynical and wonder how much of this was accidental rather than the result of a deliberate and carefully crafted crime strategy … more here

The Editor, Sir

THE COMMISSIONER of police recently revised the dress code for members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF). The previous code, which was revised by former Commissioner Lucius Thomas, had allowed female officers to wear light make-up, fingernail tips with pale colours, earrings, wigs and braids, with all these allowances being governed by clauses relating to colour and size. Locks were completely eliminated from this dress code … more here