LETTER OF THE DAY: We can’t use criminals to fight crime

The Editor, Sir:

As I watched in dismay and horror the beating and shooting of a crime suspect by members of the police force on one of our local television stations recently, I could not help holding back tears of sorrow and sadness for this island we love.

It has long been the cry of many individuals of the poorer class of society that members of the police force are actively involved in extrajudicial killings in this country. Having seen the recent report, I must agree that all is not well with the stories that the CCN is giving us, despite the level of counterclaims by residents who witness these horrific incidents constantly.

The time is right for a new police force with new mandates; a force that is committed to serving and protecting. There currently exist too many vigilantes in the constabulary. We cannot use criminals to fight crime. Jamaica must be able to trust its law enforcers and currently, there exists a huge credibility deficit with members of the JCF.

I am, etc.,

LEMARKE FOSTER

lemarkf@hotmail.com