As the festive season approaches, Jamaica finds itself at a critical juncture in its ongoing fight against crime. The holidays are often a time of heightened activity for law enforcement, yet they also provide an opportunity to reflect on the progress made and the collective effort required to sustain it. In his most Commissioner’s Corner in the weekly Force Orders, Commissioner of Police Dr Kevin Blake struck a tone of both gratitude and determination, recognising the invaluable contributions of every member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) in securing the progress achieved in 2024. His words remind us that policing goes beyond arrests and operations to building trust, fostering unity, and serving with integrity.
Dr Blake’s message is clear: the JCF is more than the sum of its parts. Every member, from the newest recruit to the most seasoned officer, plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of our communities. “You are out in your numbers, not only being present, but being effectively present. You understand the mission,” he wrote. This recognition of “effective presence” underscores the importance of not just showing up, but of bringing professionalism, dedication, and purpose to the task at hand.
The Commissioner’s address comes at a time when the Force’s hard work is yielding tangible results. He highlighted the recent success of the Manchester Police Division, whose swift and strategic action in Spaulding led to the arrest of three perpetrators. “It is these elements of the strategy that the Manchester Police applied masterfully… that led to the arrest of 3 of the cowards,” he noted. This example is emblematic of what the JCF’s collective effort can achieve: a commitment to intelligent deployment, quick response, and a refusal to give criminals the space to operate.
Yet Dr Blake’s gratitude extends beyond individual achievements to encompass the broader culture of service within the JCF. “Every patrol, every investigation, every act of kindness you extend to a citizen strengthens the foundation of trust between us and the people we serve,” he reminded his colleagues. This recognition of the smaller, everyday actions that officers take to build trust and foster safety highlights a deeper understanding of what it means to police a nation. It is not just about responding to crises but about creating an environment where communities can thrive.
At the heart of the Commissioner’s message is a call for unity and collective responsibility. “Together, we have seen what unity can achieve. Every member’s contribution is vital and must be forthcoming if we are to achieve even greater reductions, and hence more safer communities in 2025 and beyond,” he wrote. This emphasis on unity speaks to the essence of the JCF’s transformation. In an organisation of over 14,000 members, progress depends on everyone understanding and embracing their role in the mission.
The Commissioner’s reflections also extend to the importance of partnerships with the public. “Our achievement of safer communities is made possible through our working together in fostering community initiatives, establishing neighborhood watches, and encouraging shared vigilance,” he observed. This acknowledgment of the public’s role is significant. It buttresses the argument that, while the JCF may be the backbone of national security, it relies on the trust, cooperation, and vigilance of citizens to create lasting change.
Dr Blake’s call to maintain momentum into 2025 is a reminder that the fight against crime requires sustained effort and focus. “Our effort and momentum must continue through to 2025. There can be no letting up off the gas in January, as we have to ensure that the year starts right, lest we spend the year playing catch up,” he wrote. This proactive approach signals a leadership committed to long-term success, rather than short-term gains. It is a strategy that acknowledges the cyclical nature of crime and the need to stay ahead of those who seek to disrupt peace and security.
Beyond the operational successes and strategies, the Commissioner’s words reveal a leader who deeply values the human element of policing. “Be reminded that you are the backbone of our nation’s security, and your dedication ensures that our communities can live, work, and thrive,” he told his officers. This statement is more than a morale booster; it is a recognition of the sacrifices made by those who serve. Policing is not just a job; it is a calling that demands resilience, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to justice.
The Commissioner’s metaphor of “building a cathedral” perfectly encapsulates this vision. “We are not simply breaking stones – we are building a cathedral,” he said, urging his colleagues to see their work as part of a greater purpose. This perspective is transformative. It shifts the narrative from one of routine tasks to one of meaningful contributions to a safer, stronger Jamaica. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to the larger mission of creating a nation where peace and justice prevail.
As we look ahead to 2025, Dr Blake’s words serve as a rallying cry for the JCF and the public alike. The progress made in 2024 is a testament to what can be achieved through unity, dedication, and a shared vision. But the journey is far from over. “Our continued drive will ensure that we protect our way of life, our economy, and the future of our youths,” he wrote. This vision of a better future—one built on the foundation of trust, resilience, and shared responsibility—is a reminder that the fight against crime is not just the work of the JCF but of an entire nation.
As Commissioner Blake concluded, “Together, we police a nation, as our contribution to the building of a future.” These words capture the essence of what the JCF stands for: a collective force dedicated to the service and protection of Jamaica. In recognising the contributions of every member, fostering partnerships with the public, and maintaining a dedicated focus on the mission, Dr Blake has shown that he understands what it takes to lead a Force in transformation. This is a Commissioner who ‘gets it,’ and under his leadership, the JCF is not merely breaking stones—it is building a cathedral.
