Measures Being Implemented to Rid JCF of Rogue Cops
By: , September 9, 2015The Key Point:
The Facts
- Mr. Bunting’s remark is in response to recent acts of criminality committed by a few members of the JCF.
- The Minister added that the vetting facilities have been expanded “and we have to use them more intensely.”
The Full Story
Minister of National Security, Hon. Peter Bunting, says systematic strategies and measures are being implemented to rid the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) of rogue cops.
Mr. Bunting’s remark is in response to recent acts of criminality committed by a few members of the JCF.
“While it has been embarrassing, to say the least, I think it must cause us to do some deep introspection and reflection, to look at how we have to adjust the recruiting, to screen some of these people at entry level, look at how we do ongoing vetting, and also we have to improve supervision,” he said.
The Minister added that the vetting facilities have been expanded “and we have to use them more intensely.”
Speaking at the handover of 60 motorcycles to the JCF, at the office of the Commissioner of Police, in Kingston, today (September 7), the Minister said supervision is crucial as most of the acts have been committed by “fairly junior members” of the force.
“I believe we have to ensure that we have sufficient officers and sub-officers providing supervision, coaching and mentoring to steer persons away from inappropriate behaviour,” he said.
Mr. Bunting also urged members of the force to live within their means and manage their finances properly.
“These things can be avoided if senior people take young constables under their wings and coach them and guide them, not just about professional conduct, but also about how to manage their personal affairs, so that they don’t expose themselves to the temptations that come from financial hardships,” he said.
The Minister encouraged all members of the force to continue to work hard to restore and rebuild the reputation of the police by exhibiting the highest levels of professionalism.
“It is not a time that we can allow ourselves to withdraw in that embarrassment. It is time that the good officers will have to redouble their time and effort to regain the confidence of the public, and it is also a time that the public needs to step up and support the police,” he said.