Dr Kevin Blake has been officially inaugurated as the Commissioner of Police in a solemn Change of Command Ceremony held on Monday, March 18, 2024.
The ceremony, a pivotal moment for law enforcement in Jamaica, was attended by an array of dignitaries including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, Dr Horace Chang; Chief Justice Sykes; Attorney General Marlene Malahoo Forte; Paula Llewellyn, the Director of Public Prosecutions; Chief of Defence Staff, Antonette Wemyss Gorman, Opposition Spokesman on National Security, Senator Peter Bunting , alongside numerous other Heads of State Organisations and corporate bodies.
Elevating from the position of Deputy Commissioner, where he significantly contributed to the force’s transformation in recent years, Dr Blake steps into the role with a clear vision of leadership and service. Throughout his inaugural address, he underscored a strong commitment to serve and lead, reinforcing his dedication to being a transformational servant leader. Dr Blake said, “I am prepared and ready to bring the best of my intellect, my training, my personal discipline, and my emotional intelligence to lead this Jamaica Constabulary Force to be the next best edition of itself.”
His speech outlined his strategic focus areas, emphasizing the welfare of JCF members, strengthening stakeholder partnerships, notably with the mainstream media, and implementing innovative programs to enhance public trust and safety. Dr Blake made a compelling promise to the men and women of the JCF, asserting, “My colleagues, as your Commissioner, I have your back. As you labour around the clock on the frontlines, in the back office support and administration, you can count on me to do everything in my power to ensure that you have the resources and training to execute the mission.”
Acknowledging the complex nature of crime and the critical role of the JCF in maintaining law and order, Dr Blake praised the force’s current resources and readiness, stating, “We have never been as resourced as we are now, as Jamaica’s leading law enforcement organisation, and I expect that we will continue to receive the resources required to do the most difficult job in Jamaica.”
Commissioner Blake succeeds Major General Antony Anderson, who led the JCF for six years, driving significant modernisation and transformation efforts. In expressing gratitude towards his predecessor, Dr Blake noted, “Major General has made a mark on the JCF, catalysing us into an era of unprecedented and irreversible modernisation and transformation. Your legacy is evident for all of us.”
With a commendable academic and professional background, including a PhD in Sustainable Development (Information Systems), a Master of Science in Computer-Based Management Information Systems, and a Bachelor’s degree with honours in Computer Science and Mathematics, Commissioner Blake brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the forefront of Jamaica’s fight against crime.
As Commissioner Blake embarks on his tenure, his inaugural address has set a tone of optimism and dedication towards a safer, more secure Jamaica. By prioritising the welfare of JCF members, fostering stakeholder partnerships, and committing to the highest standards of transparency and accountability, Dr Blake’s leadership signals the continuation of a new era for the JCF and for public safety in Jamaica.
