JaRistotle’s Jottings | Crime, policing and the security environment

Having examined aspects of the political, economic, social and technological issues appurtenant to crime management in Jamaica, it is evident that there is an intrinsic link between these various factors as far as the nature and extent to which they facilitate or deter crime. At the head of the pack are the political factors, as these largely determine the nature of economic and social issues, and shape the operating environment within which crime has to be addressed.

In business analyses, environmental factors are those that influence or are determined by the surrounding environment: the impact of the business on the natural environment, as well as the effects of the said environment on the business readily come to mind. In the security context, these factors are more concerned with the environment within which the security forces operate and how their operations have shaped that environment.

The physical environment

The non-observance of zoning laws and the marked lack of enforcement thereof have resulted in complex variations in residential and commercial arrangements in communities islandwide. Similar disregard for building codes and public health standards have resulted in a proliferation of even more complex makeshift communities populated by spontaneous settlers [squatters], which present countless obstacles for routine policing operations. Given their irregular layout and relatively closed nature, these communities are havens for criminals who easily blend into the ramshackle environment and establish fiefdoms.

While it is acknowledged that people need housing and will 'capture' a spot if they are otherwise unable to formally access suitable accommodation, there should be a process by which these informal settlements are allowed to evolve. Planned development, inclusive of basic infrastructure such as roads and unimpeded access for police, utility and emergency vehicles, are critical to effective security and safety management.

However, there are concerns regarding unimpeded access, namely drive-by shootings. Residents in affected communities invariably resort to makeshift barricades, blocking roads with whatever they can find. The result is limited or delayed access in the event of emergencies; routine policing becomes nay impossible.

Creative solutions to the residents' concerns and the need for unimpeded access are relatively easy to implement. For instance, a series of humps and dips in the roads can effectively restrict speeding vehicles and drive-by shootings. Cleaner communities, no roadblocks, no access restrictions.

The police force

There is growing evidence of rampant corruption across public sector agencies, where individuals have discretionary approval and licensing powers, and more so within the police where the powers of arrest and prosecution have become instruments of extortion and abuse. Such corruption is naturally met with disdain, distrust and fear. Policing without citizen support is for dictatorships, not democratic societies.

Professor Anthony Harriott's recent reference to the toxic practices within the police force is sadly accurate. The outcry and denial by the leadership of both the officers and the federated ranks speak to a deep-rooted malaise, one which characterises the manner in which some members execute their duties.

Brute force, lack of respect for citizens and general skulduggery are not uncommon. Regular hard-handedness during operations in certain communities, combined with various nefarious activities, have created a major divide with the citizens they are supposed to serve and protect.

It is foolhardy to think that we will achieve any improvements in the operating environment if there continues to be a polluting effect by the police.

Transformation

That said, the force needs a total makeover, starting with appointing a new commissioner, otherwise don't expect anything new. We need someone from outside of the force, with no genealogical or other link to the force or the political directorate. Someone over who no 'squaddie', 'tician' or 'shotta' can exercise sway because of secrets best kept in the closet. Someone who is willing to uproot the lame, lazy and corrupt, and lay a foundation for succession and continued growth.

A transformed police force with credible leadership is priority. Once the source of pollution is contained, the issues within the environment in which the police operate can be addressed in a more meaningful manner.

Prevention rather than cure

Policing tactics have notable implications for the security environment. I want to suggest that the police adopt a posture of prevention. Rather than pursue offenders, prevent the commission of offences in the first place, and by extension reduce the potential consequences of crime.

Prevention allays the need for and costs associated with investigations and prosecution. Just look at the effect of their controlling presence at major road intersections, especially during peak periods. No road-hogging, no blocking of intersections, no creative driving.

No crime, no problem. 'Jamaica, no problem'.