Crime Stop Jamaica (CSJ) commemorated its 36th anniversary with a grand gala on Sunday, October 5, at The Jamaica Pegasus Hotel, bringing together leaders from government, law enforcement, the private sector, civil society, and international partners under the theme ‘United Against Crime and Corruption: 36 Years of Building Trust and Community’.

Speaking on the significance of the milestone, Cherise Bruce-Douglas, Executive Director of Crime Stop Jamaica, said, “Our 36-year journey has been marked by the strength of partnership and the courage of ordinary Jamaicans who continue to come forward in the fight against crime. Every tip received, every weapon seized, and every life saved has reinforced the importance of this programme to our nation’s security and stability.”

Steady Progress

Born out of the vision of the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) in 1989, CSJ has remained steadfast in its mandate to offer citizens anonymous channels to give information on crime. With a tripartite partnership with the media and the police, CSJ bridges the gap in trustworthiness among citizens toward law enforcement, providing a safe, confidential, and secure conduit for sharing critical information. 

Since the organisation’s inception, citizens have utilised CSJ to share information anonymously on all categories of criminal activities. This has led to the receipt of over 33,700 tips, the seizure of $909M worth of narcotics, 1,112 illegal firearms, and 57,983 rounds of ammunition.

The body’s efforts have also resulted in the recovery of $340M worth of property; the arrest of over 3,000 perpetrators; and reward payouts amounting to $87M. Importantly, in 36 years, not a single source has ever been compromised. 

Together Towards One Goal

In recognition of individuals and organisations who have shown exceptional dedication to CSJ over the years, several appreciative tokens were awarded during the gala. The entities recognised were: The Jamaica Constabulary Force, NCB Financial Group, FLOW, Ministry of National Security and Peace, and the Nurses Association of Jamaica. Board members with over 10 years of service were also acknowledged and these included: Charles Ross, President and CEO of Sterling Asset Management; Neville James, Non-Executive Director at Access Financial Services Limited; Peter J. Thwaites, Businessman and Former Seprod Limited Director; Brian Schmidt, IRIE FM Marketing Manager and Zip FM Vice Chairman; and Karen Bhoorasingh, President and Chief Technical Officer of Guardian General Insurance Jamaica Limited (P&C Group). They were each presented with unique, handcrafted ceramic pieces by artist Michael Layne, celebrating their commitment and contributions to the organisation’s mission.

Mark Berman, Canadian High Commissioner to Jamaica, delivered the keynote address at the gala. Quoting the legendary Bob Marley’s 1976 song War, saying, “Everywhere is war,” he noted that the fight against crime is indeed a global struggle, but what matters most is how we fight, through prevention, partnership, and people-centred solutions. He praised the organisation’s courage and impact, describing it as “a lifeline, empowering citizens to speak out, strengthening trust with law enforcement, and creating safer communities.” He also reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to Jamaica’s security and justice efforts, stating, “Canada is proud to stand alongside Jamaica as a key partner in the fight against crime and corruption,” and lauded the role of community collaboration in building trust, resilience, and hope.

Looking to the road ahead, Sandra Glasgow, Chairperson of Crime Stop Jamaica, underscored that progress is being made in the journey toward a safer Jamaica. “This year’s success in reducing crime validates the ecosystem in which we operate,” she said. “But progress is fragile, and we cannot rely on government action or community courage alone. It is the partnership of both that builds a truly safe society.”

She made clear that sustaining these efforts requires continued support, underlining, “Our ability to run a 24-hour hotline, offer rewards, and launch awareness campaigns depends on the generosity of corporate sponsors, donors, and the public. Your support is not just a donation, it is an investment in Jamaica’s future, in peace, and in opportunity for generations to come.”