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A total of 157 members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) have been recognised and awarded this year for outstanding service.

The police officers were honoured during the LASCO/JCF ‘Saluting Our Heroes’ awards ceremony at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston on Friday (October 25).

Held under the theme ‘Transforming the Present, Securing the Future’, the ceremony coincided with the JCF’s 157th anniversary.

It also coincided with the 75th anniversary of the inclusion of women in the JCF. This year’s highly coveted Chairman’s Award went to Constable Junior Thompson of Area Five, who also received a cash prize of $175,000 and an array of LASCO gifts.

A key element of Thompson’s success is his commitment to capacity building within the JCF. He has taken the initiative to lecture fellow officers on the Administrative Review Policy and Standard Operating Procedures, playing a significant role in strengthening the force’s operations.

His contributions extend beyond training; having led policy review discussions during area tasking meetings, aiding the improvement of operational protocols.

Thompson’s leadership extends into community development as well. As a dedicated leader in both the Above Rocks and Constant Spring Police Youth Clubs, he has spearheaded several transformative projects including initiatives to create a community park in the Cassava Piece neighbourhood and the construction of a much-needed bus stop in Above Rocks.

Upon receiving the LASCO Chairman’s Award, Thompson said: “This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and service of my colleagues and the communities we protect. I am honoured to represent Area 5 and the JCF in this capacity, and I remain committed to transforming the present while securing the future.”

Further expressing gratitude to LASCO, he said, “To Mr James Rawle, Professor Rosalea Hamilton and the entire team at the LASCO Chin Foundation and LASCO affiliated companies, your unwavering commitment to honouring 157 hardworking officers every year, makes this recognition all the more meaningful. You remind us that our sacrifices though sometimes unseen are of value.”

The other finalists were Corporal Shantel Watson – Area One; Corporal Namoy Roberts – Area Two; Sergeant Margaret Simms-Williams – Area Three; Constable Moesha Allen – Area Four, and Constable Jahvarn Brown – Non-Geographical Division.

The prizes awarded also included $125,000 to the first runner-up, $100,000 to the second runner-up, and $75,000 each to the other three finalists.

Minister of State in the Ministry of National Security, Juliet Cuthbert Flynn, commended the police officers for their hard work and encouraged them to remain resolute and resilient while executing their duties.

Reflecting on the theme, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Charmine Shand said, “As we celebrate 157 years of service to Jamaica and 75 years since women were first allowed to join the ranks, we stand at a pivotal moment in our history. It speaks to our commitment to evolving and adapting to meet the challenges of today while laying the foundation for a stronger, more resilient Force in the future.”

ACP Shand pointed out that she is “proud of the strides we have made, particularly in advancing the roles of women within the JCF”.

“To all the men and women in blue, I urge you to stay resolute and steadfast in the face of challenges. Your bravery and sacrifice are essential in upholding law and order, and our nation is grateful for your service,” she stated.

“We have often heard the saying, ‘behind every strong man is a strong woman’. But I like to say, ‘beside every strong man is a strong woman’, and for the first time, three women have been promoted to the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police at once, myself being one of them, a testament to the dedication and excellence of our female officers,” she added.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Office for the LASCO Chin Foundation, Professor Rosalea Hamilton, highlighted the enduring impact of the awards.

“For 24 years, these awards have not only recognised the professionalism and dedication of our officers but have also underscored the vital role they play in safeguarding our communities. This year, as we celebrate 75 years of women in the Force, we are reminded of the trailblazers who paved the way and the remarkable women who continue to lead with courage today.

“The LASCO Chin Foundation is proud to stand alongside the JCF in honouring these heroes, whose service makes Jamaica stronger every day,” she said.

The LASCO/JCF Police of the Year Awards Programme, which was established in 2000, is intended to publicly recognise the professionalism and commitment of the JCF’s members.

The selection process occurs at the divisional, area and national levels.

Nominees are evaluated based on their work ethic; relationships with the public and team members; community involvement and other social initiatives; professional knowledge on operational procedures; communication skills; ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing, and awareness of national and international affairs.