Mayor of Montego Bay touts reduction in murders

     

Mayor of Montego Bay Richard Vernon says the more than 30 per cent reduction in murders in St. James, when compared with the corresponding period last year, is a positive sign for the municipality.

 

For the period January 1 and May 26, St. James was classified as the most murderous parish, with a record of 58 murders, substantially more than all other police divisions.

 

Highlighting the need to build better communities and families, Mr. Vernon said the reduction is a sign of hope. 

 

"In 2023, from January 1st to August 3rd, murders for St. James were 124. For the same period this year, it is 82 - a 34 per cent reduction. This is a testament to the progress and safety of our municipality. Commendation to the parish command and the support that made it possible. For what we want to achieve, partnership for prosperity is our only way forward," he asserted.  

 

Mr. Vernon was speaking at Tuesday's civic ceremony in Montego Bay, St. James to mark Jamaica's 62nd year of independence.