SSP Phillips speaks on viral TikTok video

In the video, the officers were seen participating in their uniforms in what is said to be a TikTok trend.

Their participation, however, has been deemed to reinforce “several negative stereotypes” about the police force, argued the JCF.

In a statement the constabulary said: “The JCF High Command categorically states that such behaviour will not be tolerated. All members of the JCF should be reminded that under the regulations of the Book Of Rules, it is a breach of conduct to publish or cause to be published any form of communication while wearing the JCF uniform without the express permission of the Commissioner of Police, obtained through the Head of the Corporate Communications Unit.

“The uniform of the JCF is a symbol of trust, responsibility, and public service, and it must be worn with the utmost respect and professionalism.”

Though not addressing directly the statement issued by the JCF in response to the TikTok video, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Christopher Phillips highlighted a broader issue at play.

“I was at a church service on Sunday and the pastor made a critical point about the generational gaps and the types of things that attracts or entice this generation.

“All these groups come with different expectations, different orientation about how things should be.

“The truth is I am not surprised, there are more challenges to come to police leaders, and it is not just confined to police leaders. And it is not just confined to policing its right across the spectrum that they’re going to be more challenges to managers, to seniors to respond to this upcoming generation.

“It might mean in some instances, as a force, that we might need to review some of our dated policies,” said SSP Phillips, who is the commander in charge of the St Catherine South Police Division.

He was addressing officers and staff assigned to the Old Harbour Police sub-division at an internal awards function on Wednesday.

“I saw the notification from the JCF but I have some other views that I will keep them to myself for now but there might be a need for us to review some of our policies,” added the senior cop.

A total of 53 persons primarily officers and a few members of the auxiliary were recognised for their exemplary service to the police zone for the year 2023.

Last year was a success on many fronts for the constabulary which was noticeable across all police divisions. However, SSP Phillips told the officers that it is important that they improve on the gains made.

“But notwithstanding I want you in Old Harbour to remain focus around the mission. There are persons out there depending on you. It can’t be that we become comfortable with over a hundred and odd murders [in the division] every year,” he said.

Meantime, in anticipation of the now announced local government elections, SSP Phillips says special attention will be given to the hot spots within the division.

He added: “I want to sound the alarm that we will be watching Old Harbour Bay very seriously; and especially now in what some persons called the silly political season… we are going to be watching that space closely so much so that additional resources will be deployed from our HQ to assist in the Old Harbour space and especially with focus on Old Harbour Bay.”