PM praises Clarendon police for reduction in murders

 

Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has urged the police in Clarendon to maintain the reduction in murders after the parish recorded fewer than 70 homicides since the start of the year. 

 

Dr. Holness noted that the achievement, the first time in over 15 years, marks a turning point for the parish once regarded as a significant contributor to the country's national murder rate. 

 

He congratulated commanding officer for the Clarendon Division, Senior Superintendent Shane McCalla, and his team for the strategy leading to the reduction.

 

"I was very pleased as I entered the facility when I spoke with the senior superintendent in charge of the parish who told me of the amazing reduction in murders and violent crimes - over a 49% reduction since the beginning of the year. I offered my commendations to the police team. They have done an amazing job. But I commend you, the citizens of the parish, because your own cooperation is also important in the reduction of violence. And I encourage you to continue to cooperate with the strategies and policies of the government and with the tactics of the police in reducing these murders," he urged.

 

The Prime Minister was speaking at a function in the parish on Wednesday.

 

Meanwhile, Superintendent McCalla said, as gang related incidents decline, attention has shifted to emerging threats such as domestic disputes. To address this, the Clarendon Division has reinforced its domestic violence intervention centre and enhanced officer training in conflict resolution and domestic violence response. 

 

Partnerships with the Ministry of Justice and agencies have also strengthened efforts through restorative justice programmes, promoting peaceful conflict resolution over violent outcomes. 

 

In the meantime, the police are also reporting that they have taken firm steps to address praedial larceny, a longstanding issue in Clarendon. 

 

Superintendent McCalla shared a plan while speaking with the Prime Minister, noting that farmers watch groups have been revitalised while a team geared specifically to praedial larceny prevention will carry out a 30-day operation.