Assistant Commissioner of Police John Mclean - File

The Jamaica Constabulary Force has established a new arm, the Community Safety Branch. This branch will be headed by Assistant Commission of Police John McLean, who was recently recruited from Scotland Yard due to his expertise in Community Policing. The branch, which has its head office at Oxford Terrace in New Kingston, will operate similarly to other branches such as the CIB, Special Branch and Community Relations.

The CSB was formed out of the desire to have the police and other agencies more involved in the overall development of the community, therefore being able to offer maximum safety and security. The major role of the CSB is to provide the point of contact between the police and other external bodies which fosters community safety, security and development. These include safety and crime prevention groups, security companies, child development agencies, neighbourhood watch groups and the various ministries. The CSB is also responsible for the implementation of CCTV across Jamaica and the planning and coordination of the Safe School Programme as well as the health and education of students.

Comprehensive approach

Previously, the role of community safety and security was the responsibility of the Community Relations Branch of the JCF, through the formations of neighbourhood watch groups. For this reason the responsibilities of both branches will overlap, since the role and responsibilities of community relations have not changed. However, the CSB will, in addition to the Police, garner support from several other agencies to provide a more comprehensive approach towards the community.

In times gone the police had little input in the development of communities, housing schemes or housing projects. At present, the police will have an active part to play in these matters due to the alliance which is being formed between the various ministries and the CSB. The CSB will be responsible to liaison with the National Housing Trust to plan the design and development of housing solutions throughout Jamaica.

One of the major benefits to be derived from the CSB is the easy access in which the police will be able to make their way in and out of communities, thus facilitating an improved service. Communities will be able to move from a state of criminal infestation and susceptibility, to a renewed relationship with the police.

On The Beat is a production of the Constabulary Communication Network. For further information, contact Constable Patrick Walters at 978-2729.