St. Thomas Achieves 63% Murder Clear-Up Rate; Prime Minister Holness Commends Police for Strategic Gains
Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness has commended the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) for its work in the parish of St. Thomas, where the police division has achieved a 63% clear-up rate for murders.
This, alongside notable reductions in robberies, break-ins, and larcenies.
During a field visit on Thursday (June 19) to the parish, Prime Minister Holness received a report from Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Leonard Kinlocke, Operations Officer for the parish, about the crime trends and response efforts.
ASP Kinlocke reported that while the number of murders, shootings, and rapes has increased by one compared to last year, the overall trend in accusatory crimes is moving in the right direction.
“So far, we are not doing too badly as a division. We are not where we want to be, but we are not worse off,” ASP Kinlocke stated, noting that homicides are up marginally, from 7 to 8 year-to-date.
St. Thomas police successful in nabbing migrant criminals
ASP Kinlocke explained that this stems from domestic disputes and unexpected flare-ups in previously quiet communities.
“We have seen an increase in migrant criminals,” ASP Kinlocke confirmed. “Due to intensified police operations in other areas, some criminals have been relocating. In fact, we recently apprehended four wanted men, two of them from as far as St. James.”
Noting the successes, the Prime Minister lauded the division’s ability to solve cases and contain criminal activity.
“I want to congratulate you and your team for achieving a 63% clear-up rate in murders. That is a significant accomplishment. The national numbers are trending downward, and while some parishes may experience temporary spikes, I have full confidence in your ability to bring the situation under control,” Dr. Holness said.
The Government continues to support law enforcement with resources and strategic policy direction to dismantle criminal networks and improve safety across all parishes.