Angelo Laurence, Gleaner Writer
MANDEVILLE, Manchester:
THIRTY-FOUR POLICEMEN and women assigned to the Area Three division of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) were promoted to the ranks of corporal and sergeant on January 3.
They received their new stripes during an area meeting with Police Commissioner Lucius Thomas at Kendal Apostolic Church, Manchester. The Area Three police division comprises St. Elizabeth, Manchester and Clarendon.
While there were many smiling faces, some of those who were not promoted voiced their disapproval for having been overlooked. They argued that they had given up to 16 years of unblemished service to the force, yet they had been overlooked for promotion. One female member of the officer corp was loudly cheered by her juniors when she let it be known that, though she had responsibility for some of the men and women, she was not 'privy' to make recommendations for the promotions.
ACT PROFESSIONAL
Commissioner Thomas returned calm to the gathering when he explained the selection process and assured that all who were qualified will be promoted in due time. He, however, sternly warned the policemen and women that there was no room for those who are unprofessional or operate outside the law or rules of the organisation.
"My advice to you is to walk the straight and narrow path (while being careful not to be influenced by those with money)," the commissioner said. Mr. Thomas also said it was not only the well-known dons who would try to influence the lawmen. He said others, who could be characterised as upright in the eyes of the average citizen, would also make similar attempts.
Mr. Thomas challenged the policemen and women to speak the 'truth every time', though it may not be palatable, and to be 'respectful'.
