Build trust between people and the police

THE EDITOR, Madam:

There is no doubt that the future of crime fighting in Jamaica must be grounded in intelligence-led policing, collaboration, presence, and vigilance. As a nation, we should commend the reported reduction in crime over the past few years. However, it is equally important to critically assess the methods used to achieve this reduction and to consider how these approaches shape public trust.

Crime fighting is more than brute force or a solely lethal approach. Unfortunately, many Jamaicans have come to believe that law enforcement officers are “out to get them,” which is far from the truth. Our police officers are trained to serve, protect, and reassure citizens. Their mandate is to work with communities, not against them.

This narrative must be changed and view law enforcement through a more balanced, positive lens. While there may be instances where officers act outside the bounds of their training, these cases are the exception rather than the norm. The vast majority of officers carry out their duties with professionalism, cordiality, and respect, while maintaining the authority required to keep communities safe.

Many people also fear law enforcement due to longstanding stigma and concerns about being wrongly labelled as criminals or informers. However, with the modern direction of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), citizens can take some comfort in the renewed emphasis on genuine grassroot community policing. At the same time, accountability must remain paramount. Officers who breach professional conduct should be held accountable, and strong mechanisms must be in place to safeguard the rights and dignity of all citizens in cases of misconduct.

Building safer communities requires not only effective policing but also trust, transparency, and shared responsibility between the police and the public.

RICARDO SMITH