Dr Kevin Blake to become new commissioner of police

Deputy Commissioner Dr Kevin Blake will be the new commissioner of police of Jamaica.

National Security Minister Dr Horace Chang confirmed the development at this morning's post-Cabinet press briefing at Jamaica House.

He said Blake will take over on March 19, replacing Major General Antony Anderson whose contract expires on March 18. 

"We have no problem accepting Dr Kevin Blake as the next commissioner of police," Chang said of the recommendation by the Police Service Commission to the Governor General for Blake's appointment. 

The Sunday Gleaner reported on March 3 that Blake, the current head of the development and logistics portfolio, was tipped to take the top post in the Jamaica Constabulary Force. 

He was among four deputy commissioners of police interviewed for the position last week.

The other DCPs are Clifford Blake, who leads strategic operations; Richard Stewart, who is in charge of administration and support services; and Fitz Bailey, who heads crime and security.

Bailey is expected to retire soon. 

Dr Blake's work on technological and other systems changes in the force, including helping the JCF achieve ISO 9001, an international standard for quality management systems, has earned him favourable consideration from key members of the Holness administration.

Who is Dr Kevin Blake?

Born in Kingston. Spent significant portion of his early life in Olympic Gardens, St Andrew, and later moved to Portmore, St Catherine.

Education: Charlemont High School in St Catherine; PhD (high commendation) in sustainable development, a master of science in computer-based management information system and a bachelor's degree in computer science and mathematics, all obtained at The University of the West Indies, Mona. 

Career: Worked with National Commercial Bank; Decision Support System, a software development company. Joined JCF on a special entry programme as an assistant superintendent and rose to assistant commissioner of police in 2013.

Former head of the Public Safety and Traffic Enforcement Branch, National Intelligence Bureau, Area 3 Police. 

Promoted to DCP in June 2020.

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