JCF setting up Witness Care Department

The Jamaica Constabulary Force is establishing a Witness Care Department to improve the Witness Protection Programme, according to Deputy Commissioner of Police in-charge of Crime Fitz Bailey.

DCP Bailey has cited domestic-related as well as other complex matters as factors affecting the Witness Protection Programme.

The programme has in some instances contributed to the successful conviction of some of Jamaica's most notorious gangsters, but according to DCP Bailey, the problem issues have to be addressed.

The senior cop, speaking in St. Elizabeth on Saturday at the Annual General Meeting of the National Lay Magistrates Association, stressed that successful convictions can only be achieved with appropriate evidence. He noted that the 'informer fi dead' attitude has led to many witnesses being reluctant to come forward out of fear and self-interest, and in the interest of their families.

DCP Bailey cited a typical example of a witness having multiple relationships and children by various partners, which means “you have to take in the entire family.”

As a result, he said the police were now establishing the Witness Care Department to “solely just treat with the issues of witnesses…”