The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) wishes to remind all members of the public of the importance of cooperating with police during any interaction, especially during an arrest. Recent incidents, including a viral video involving operatives from the Spanish Town police station, highlight the need for clarity on this matter.
On Monday, June 17, 2024, a team from the Spanish Town police station responded to a call from a primary school administrator requesting assistance to remove a disruptive parent from the school compound. Despite multiple attempts by the police to engage the individual peacefully, the situation escalated, resulting in the individual’s arrest and subsequent charges, including assaulting policemen and women and resisting arrest.
Under Section 15 of the Constabulary Force Act the police are given the authority to arrest individuals without a warrant if they are found committing an offence or if the officer has reasonable grounds to suspect that an individual has committed or is about to commit an offence. In these circumstances, it is important to remain calm and comply with the police instructions. As such, below are key points to remember:
Stay Calm
If approached by the police, maintain a calm demeanour. Do not engage in aggressive behaviour or use threatening language.
Comply with Instructions
Follow the instructions given by the police. If you are being arrested, understand that resisting can escalate the situation and may result in additional charges.
Know Your Rights
You have the right to know the reason for your arrest. If you feel your rights are being violated, comply first and address the issue through the appropriate legal channels later.
Do Not Resist
Resisting arrest can lead to physical confrontations that put both you and the police at risk. Allow the process to unfold peacefully and without incident.
Seek Legal Counsel
If arrested, request to contact an attorney. Your legal representative can provide guidance and support through the judicial process.
Avoid Interfering
It’s important to allow the police to do their jobs without interference. Inciting negative behaviour or obstructing an arrest puts everyone’s safety at risk and is against the law.
The JCF is committed to maintaining public safety and upholding the law with professionalism and respect. We urge everyone to assist in this mission by engaging with our members appropriately. Together, we can ensure that interactions between the public and the police are conducted safely and respectfully.
