Police Commissioner Lucius Thomas (left) speaks with Superintendent Kenneth Wade, in charge of St. Catherine North Division, after meeting with officers at the Spanish Town Police Station in St. Catherine on November 16. Looking on is Sergeant Norman McDonald. - NORMAN GRINDLEY
COMMISSIONER OF POLICE Lucius Thomas made a morale-boosting call on the men and women of the St. Catherine North Police Division on Wednesday November 16.
During a pep talk with the divisional head Superintendent Kenneth Wade, Deputy Superintendent Brown, Assistant Superintendent Hyman, crime chief Detective Inspector Merval Smith, along with the rank-and-file members of the division, Commissioner Thomas thanked them for the exceptional job being done.
He pointed out that Spanish Town was located at a critical geographical point, as all access to Kingston from the west has to pass through the Old Capital.
He told those present that they would have to develop an extreme sense of security, as they have to protect themselves before they can protect others. He encouraged the lawmen to watch each other's backs and ensure that they were safe at all times. Commendations were in order for the special squad for taking the fight to the hoodlums of the Old Capital and its environs.
Commissioner Thomas disclosed that the organisation has embarked on a recruitment drive to increase the force's number by 1,500 personnel and that 100 persons will be recruited in the graduate entry programme within the next two years. He intimated that the height requirement of 5'7" as a prerequisite for recruitment will be relaxed if the applicant can fulfil the other requirements.
During a meeting with business persons and representatives of the Spanish Town Chamber of Commerce at Arian's Restaurant, Commissioner Thomas commended Superintendent Wade for a job well done in spite of limited resources. He said there would be an intensification of community policing, including a massive social intervention in designated sections of the town to the tune of $200 million.
He highlighted the fact that recent amendments to the Larceny Act will aid law enforcement officers in indicting offenders, especially as it relates to extortion. The commissioner encouraged interest groups to lobby for change in the justice system to ensure that cases are brought before the courts quicker and disposed of faster.
In closing, he said that despite the challenges to get the number of recruits needed in training, the recruiting standard would not be compromised. He also assured those present that Spanish Town and its environs would see an increased number of police personnel, especially for the Christmas holidays.
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