FROM RUBBLE TO RENEWAL- THE HANOVER DIVISION INSPIRES HOPE AFTER REBUILDING THE HOME OF CONSTABLE TAYLOR IN LESS THAN 24 HOURS
“Although we were impacted, we are still reporting for duty, still on the frontline and ensuring that others are saved,” Corporal Marlando Gordon of the Hanover Division pauses long enough to declare as his hands tend busily to remove building materials from a truck.
It is the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, and her destruction has failed to cause despair. Contrarily, the resolve of police officers in Hanover to serve their community remains unshaken amid the challenges and uncertainties delivered by the worst Hurricane in Jamaica’s recorded history.
Hanover remains one of the safest parishes to live in, with a 54.5 per cent reduction in murders since the start of 2025, when compared to 2024. And the police who serve that space are committed to maintaining that status.
Constable Jason Taylor* stands as testament to that. Each day since the storm’s passage he has showed up for his colleagues and citizens, determined to do his sworn duties – despite himself counting among the thousands who lost the warmth and security of a home.
On learning of Constable Taylor’s* plight, Commanding Officer of the division, Superintendent of Police (SSP) Andrew Nish, ensured that his discomfort would be short-lived.
“During and after the passage of Hurricane Melissa, the Hanover Police did well in securing themselves, government infrastructure and the communities within which they serve”, SSP Nish says. “Now is the time to serve those who serve others.”
And on Monday, November 24, he and the men and women under his command did just that.
Journeying to Constable Taylor’s* home, SSP Nish happily replaced his swagger stick with nails and a hammer to work alongside his team and help re-roof the structure.
For Constable Taylor, the gesture went beyond just repairing a building; it allowed him to reclaim dignity and joy as he himself continues to help residents in this arduous recovery phase.
“I have always enjoyed policing, but this initiative by my colleagues makes me feel more motivated to get my job done,” he says, gazing at his restored residence.
“It is an overwhelming feeling; it was an excellent idea! It is one thing when you have to go out there and serve, but to go home to nothing is heartbreaking,” he humbly adds.
Jason Taylor* The name of the Constable was changed for the purpose of the story.
