A reserve police force could make a difference
Dear Editor,
A reduction in crime within Jamaica is excellent news. Therefore, let me first commend the Minister of National Security Dr Horace Chang, the Commissioner of Police Dr Kevin Blake, and the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF).
However, let’s not get complacent. To achieve further reductions in crime we should not only invest in technological resources but also human resources to utilise them effectively. Let’s not be naïve; we need more men and women to serve, protect, and reassure the citizens and visitors to Jamaica. Hence, I propose the forming of a reserve police force.
The reserve police force would have a similar mechanism to the Jamaica National Reserve within the JDF. This would allow the return of former police officers and former JDF members who wish to continue serving and are currently serving in other capacities.
Many countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, India, and China, have reserve police forces. For instance, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the United States of America has reported a 3 per cent reduction in violent crime. On another note, a reserve police force would alleviate the strain on other police officers, particularly in terms of skill and operational capacities.
Additionally, during a crisis extra personnel could be deployed to assist. Numerous police officers and soldiers who have garnered skills while serving have resigned; therefore, retaining them will increase boots on the ground but also lower the crime rate to under 1,000. A dream I hope Jamaica can achieve.
Chevaugn Robinson
chevaugnrobinson@yahoo.com
