THE EDITOR, Sir:
EVERY TIME there is a jailbreak, our poor police personnel are castigated and classified as irresponsible and in collusion with criminal elements in our society. Why are we housing dangerous criminals at police lock-ups or holding areas? And, why are these criminals not the charges of the Correctional Services Department? Our national crime rate is so high, it results in most police stations being understaffed as police personnel work relentlessly on the streets.
My opinion is that every time we have a jailbreak the government should be held responsible. Most of our police lock-ups are to the criminals, an 'invitation to escape.'
The Spanish Town Police lock-up had exceeded its capacity by over 300 per cent. What provisions were made by the state for these inmates? Did the police take it on themselves to house the prisoners at the lock-up despite the fact that other facilities were available?
My take on this whole thing is that the police should be blamed only if there is evidence of corroboration. For too long our police personnel have taken the blame and embarrassment for persons who have the capacity to make a difference. It is full time that we stop using our police personnel as scapegoats and call a spade a spade.
I am etc.,
WILBIG
Portmore
