THIRTY FIVE MEMBERS OF THE JCF GRADUATED FROM A FINGERPRINTING AND DIGITAL IMAGERY COURSE

The International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Bureau (INL) of the United States Embassy in Jamaica, in partnership with the Pan American Development Foundation, recently hosted a comprehensive training program for the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and other security sector stakeholders. The training, which concluded in late November, drew 35 participants from various divisions within the JCF, as well as representatives from the Major Organized Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency (MOCA), the Criminal Records Office, the Institute of Forensic Science and Legal Medicine, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, and the Ministry of National Security, attended the training.

The training sessions covered a wide range of topics, including evidence analysis, facial comparison and recognition software, digital formatting, CCTV footage analysis, the Fingerprints Act, record management, and the implications of the Data Protection Act. Participants expressed enthusiasm about the training and its potential to enhance their investigative capabilities. Deputy Commissioner of Police, Mr. Richard Stewart, who oversees the Crime and Security portfolio of the Force, addressed the participants at the closing ceremony on November 26. He charged the participants to utilize their new investigative tools effectively.

U.S. Ambassador to Jamaica, Mr. N. Nick Perry, also delivered closing remarks, reaffirming the commitment of the United States to supporting Jamaica’s efforts to reduce crime and strengthen its criminal justice system. “The collaboration between the U.S. and Jamaica is vital, and together we will enhance forensic capabilities as we collaborate to create a safer, more secure nation. I encourage you all to apply the knowledge you have gained here and continue to build on these skills,” Perry said.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Wayne Josephs of the Criminal Investigations Branch Headquarters expressed gratitude for the training, highlighting its potential to improve investigations and contribute to further crime reduction in Jamaica.