53 recognised by Old Harbour Police sub-division

The event saw a total of 53 persons – a combination of officers and members of the auxiliary – awarded certificates of recognition for their service during the year 2023.

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Several awardees were recognised more than once, a testament of their commitment to tasks assigned while making the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) a force of positive change.

Commander in charge of the Old Harbour Police sub-division Deputy Superintendent (DSP) Mark Harris outlined the challenges as well as gains made during the last year.

Among the main highlight of those gains was an estimated 60 percent reduction in major crimes in the sub-division which covers the entire constituency of St Catherine South Western.

In lauding the men and women under his management, DSP Harris said: “As I said, my members are working very hard; and I know people like to say thank you for your support … it is nice to say, but I want to say thank you for your service … support fluctuates… so I like to say thank you for your service and continue to serve.”

Internal staff awards ceremony isn’t new within the constabulary but under the leadership of Senior Superintendent Christopher Phillips, it has become a common feature.
Much to the delight of its membership, this practice has served to boost and maintain moral amongst staff within the division.

SSP Phillips, the commander in charge of St Catherine South Police Division which encompasses the entire Portmore community, Central Village and Old Harbour region, had high praises for DSP Harris, one of his chief lieutenants who have 118 officers plus other staff under his command.

“I don’t recall a day that he would have missed work,” SSP Phillips said of the Old Harbour police chief. “And most times I called he’s either on the ground or on his way to work. And in the midst of all of that would you imagine that he completed a master’s degree in security.”

With Custos of St Catherine Icylin Golding and South St Catherine Chamber of Commerce President Treacha Reid also present, SSP Phillips reiterated the constabulary’s commitment to empower its members while urging them to see themselves as an important catalyst in the society.

“Now as guardians of change you have embraced partnership and innovation in your work, constantly seeking new ways to improve your craft and better serve the people of Old Harbour,” he added.

“Your unwavering commitment to justice, compassion and integrity has not gone unnoticed and it is my great pleasure to acknowledge all of you and your achievements today.”
Persons who were not formally recognised where urged by the senior commander  to remain undaunted and use the occasion as a motivation to do more in service of country.

He reminded the officers the importance of their role, particularly in reducing the crime numbers as this shape the opinions of how foreign nationals perceived Jamaica.

Said SSP Phillips: “You must understand your part of the pie [and] how you contribute to the bigger picture. It simple means you cannot get distracted with some things I’m seeing police being distracted by.”