Some Jamaicans believe number of police fatal shootings excessive - poll

 

The latest RJRGLEANER-commissioned Don Anderson poll has found more Jamaicans believe that the number of police fatal shootings this year has been excessive than those who believe that the police are simply performing their duties. 

 

However, a significant portion of the population remains silent on the issue. 

 

According to the public opinion poll conducted between May 18 and June 7, some 21.2% of respondents believe that the level of police killings is excessive, while 14.1?el the police are doing their job. 

 

Notably, 26.9% of participants declined to offer an opinion. 

 

So far this year, 154 people have been killed by members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, a figure that draws close to the 189 police involved fatalities recorded in all of 2024.

 

On Thursday, five men were fatally shot during reported firefights with the police.

 

The poll, which was conducted among 1,033 Jamaicans 18 years and older, has a margin of error of plus or minus 3%. 

 

In the meantime, the public opinion poll has revealed generational differences in perceptions of police violence. 

 

Older Jamaicans, that is 28.4% of those age 55 to 64, and 23.4% of those 65 and older, hold the view that fatal shootings are excessive.

 

This is in comparison to 17.3% of individuals, age 18 to 24, and 15.2% of those age 25 to 34 with similar concerns. 

 

More younger respondents also believe the police are fulfilling their duties. 

 

Of those holding that view, 20.2% are from the 18 to 24 age group, while 19.8% are 65 and older. 

 

Meanwhile, 12.1% of respondents see the killings as a necessary means of removing criminals from society. 

 

An additional 5.2% are worried about innocent lives being lost and 6.7?lieve police corruption or lack of accountability play a role. 

 

Another 4?el that the police are abusing their powers. 

 

Pollster Don Anderson, who heads Market Research Services, says, while views are mixed, many Jamaicans believe that alternative strategies should be explored to fight crime. These include enhanced police training, thorough investigations and improved evidence collection. 

 

In April, human rights advocacy group Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ) staged a protest in Half Way Tree, St. Andrew demanding greater police accountability and the mandatory use of body-worn cameras during operations. 

 

But Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness countered that by urging balance in the conversation surrounding police fatal shootings. Dr. Holness expressed his satisfaction with the force's leadership and said that the increased activities in interdicting criminals and in dealing with gangs would have resulted in a significant increase in the loss of lives of those who challenged them.