Police Commissioner Issues Charge to New Members of Officer Corps
Police Commissioner Dr Kevin Blake has issued a firm charge to members of the newly expanded Officer Corps, urging them to uphold the highest standards of leadership, supervision and integrity as the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) continues its programme of organisational strengthening.
In his latest Commissioner’s Corner published in the weekly Force Orders, Dr Blake welcomed a new cohort of senior officers while stressing that promotion carries responsibility not only to the individual, but to the organisation and the people it serves.
“I have no doubt that each of these newly promoted members understands that their elevation is first for the JCF and the people whom they lead, and second for them as individuals,” the Commissioner said, as he formally welcomed 71 Deputy Superintendents and two Assistant Superintendents into the Officer Corps.
The Commissioner also congratulated the Force’s newest Assistant Commissioners of Police, Dwight Powell and Gary Francis, describing their promotions as well deserved and strengthening to the organisation. “These are two demonstrably competent and professional gentlemen, whose appointments can only make our JCF stronger,” he noted.
Dr Blake used the moment to place the promotions within the wider context of the Force’s transformation since he assumed office. He disclosed that a total of 1,926 members have been promoted across the JCF since March 19, 2024, filling long-standing gaps in supervisory and leadership ranks. “1,926 persons have now been promoted since I took office. These are 1,926 posts that were once unfilled at various points in time.”
He explained that strengthening supervision through properly filled posts is central to operational effectiveness, noting that acting appointments often place officers in command roles without the authority or confidence that formal rank provides. “More effective supervision means greater focus, more effective presence, and a much higher probability of being successful in our mission,” the Commissioner said.
The column also carried a clear message on accountability, with Dr Blake emphasising that leadership within the JCF must be grounded in fairness, integrity and trust. He reminded Commanding Officers that their role in recommending promotions must be “fair, honest and unbiased,” describing these standards as “non-negotiable requirements.”
The Commissioner emphasised that, “We shall not betray that trust and confidence…The High Command has absolutely no tolerance for such deliberate betrayal.”
The Commissioner closed by urging the new Officer Corps and the wider membership to recommit to professional leadership and service, particularly as the year draws to a close. “Let us recommit ourselves to the highest standards of leadership and service. Together, we will strengthen the Jamaica Constabulary Force and deliver the results our country deserves.”
