Dr. Chang Expects Further Reduction in Murder Rate

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, Hon. Dr. Horace Chang is optimistic that the country could record under 800 murders in 2025.

Dr. Chang informed that already, the data is showing a 31.2 per cent reduction in murders compared to the same period last year.

“If we can maintain the trend, look at the projection and ensure that we pursue programmes and policies that [can aid] the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), then we could see under 800 murders,” he stated.

The National Security Minister was speaking at the official opening of the Frome Police Station in Frome, Westmoreland, on Friday (March 14).

Dr. Chang further noted that sustainable crime reduction requires continued government investment in police resources, technology, and infrastructure.

The newly opened $200 million Frome Police Station is part of a broader initiative to modernize law enforcement facilities across the island.

It was funded by the National Housing Trust (NHT) and is expected to enhance the operational capacity of the JCF and improve working conditions for officers.

Two additional police stations are also under construction in the parish, including the Little London police station and a divisional headquarters costing $2.7 billion.

“The Government is investing in the entire criminal justice system to ensure safety. So, the police force of today will deal with the criminals [and] when it comes to law and order, if you breach the law and push it up, you have to deal with the consequences,” Dr. Chang stated.

The Minister also issued a warning to individuals involved in criminal activities, urging them to seek legal representation and cooperate with law enforcement.

In area one, which includes Trelawny, St. James and Westmoreland, homicides have dropped across all the divisions, as of the end of February 2025.

For his part, Commissioner of Police, Dr. Kevin Blake, indicated that Westmoreland, has experienced a nearly 39 per cent reduction in murders and a 45.7 per cent decrease in overall major crimes.

“I feel immense pride, tremendous gratitude and a deep sense of duty to be standing here…as we officially open this beautiful green facility [and] green means environmentally friendly,” Dr. Blake said.

“So, I trust the unveiling of this building is seen as a statement of commitment to the people of Westmoreland, a symbol for duty to the safety of the communities it serves and a promise that law enforcement will continue to evolve and meet the needs of these communities,” he added.

The Commissioner also urged community members to view the new station as not just a place to report crime, but a centre for trust and partnership.