TRANSFORMATION FOR THE FUTURE: SUPPORTED BY THE PAST
The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) over the past five years has undergone significant transformations, marked by the attainment of ISO 9001 certification, the promotion of hundreds of rank-and-file members, and the invaluable support of former commissioners. This transformation has been instrumental in strengthening the Constabulary’s operational efficiency and effectiveness.
The support from former commissioners, including the likes of Mr. Owen Ellington, the 27th Commissioner of Police who served the organisation from April 2010 to May 2014, has been a crucial factor in the JCF’s successes, as he incessantly gives support to an organisation he always believed had the potential to evolve and restore peace to the Jamaican communities.
Meanwhile, speaking with members of the Constabulary Communication Network (CCN), Dr. Karl Williams, who was also in attendance at the Mensa Lecture, expressed that he is pleased with the transformative moves of the JCF, having served the JCF as the 28th Commissioner of Police between September 2014 and January 2017, and expressed how impressed he was with what he witnessed having attended the lecture. “I recognise some people, so I know I am in the right place; I am with the police! I must also say I am very proud to see the extent to which the changes that have been implemented are producing positive results,” he said.
He went on to laud the high command and the members of the force, expressing how impressed he was with the way in which the members were able to package and share the success stories of the organisation. “I am happy to see how well the organisation has been able to package all the things that they have been doing and share it with the world. The lecture not only helps us understand what is happening within the force, but it also helps us see a level of accountability.”
These key figures, though not currently serving, endorse the current leadership, and as such, it has lent credibility to the work of Commissioner Blake and, by extension, the JCF. This backing has not only boosted the morale of the rank-and-file members but has also provided a level of continuity and stability.
Suffice to say, the support of former commissioners has contributed to enhanced community trust in the JCF. As currently, Jamaican citizens and members of the JCF alike have expressed confidence in the ability of the current leadership to address the country’s crime issues. This increased trust is not by chance, as Commissioner Blake and his deputies have placed a great amount of emphasis on curbing crime. Trust in the police is critical in fostering a collaborative approach to policing, where the community works closely with the JCF to prevent and investigate crimes.
It is safe to say that all who have eyes to see are witnessing and experiencing a transformed JCF, one that has been significantly strengthened by the support of past commissioners, enabling Commissioner Blake and his deputies to drive meaningful change within the Constabulary. This support, combined with the JCF’s commitment to quality management and community engagement, has positioned the organisation for continued success in the years to come.
