Cops question polygraph test

Several former police officers attached to the National Intelligence Bureau of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), who were reassigned to new posts a few weeks ago, are now questioning the legality of polygraph testing, blaming it for their 'demise'.

The Gleaner understands that eight former detectives were moved from the National Intelligence Bureau and they say it is linked to their results on the polygraph tests.

"The men were removed from their posts, after it was said that they were not suitable to work in the areas. They were transferred and had their posts reverted, and now they are questioning the legality of the polygraph testing," a source in the JCF told The Gleaner.

The source declined to give their name because they were not authorised to speak on the matter.

"Some of these persons have been serving for 29 years, and to just have them uprooted is not right. The reasons given have also caused a lot of discussion and disgruntlement," the individual said.

The Gleaner understands that polygraph testing has been causing concern among members of the force, who say that is a case of "damned if they do and damned if they don't".

According to JCF policy polygraph examinations are voluntary; however, they are an integral part of the JCF vetting process. The policy states that "polygraph examinations will be requested from individuals where there are areas of ethical issues regarding performance and behaviour whilst serving the JCF".

It also says that although polygraph examinations are voluntary, the commissioner of police may draw inference from persons who refuse to participate in the examination.

special units

The policy, however, states that for special units within the JCF, polygraph testing is mandatory. It says refusal to comply will result in exclusion from these units.

The source says that some officers are now fearful to do the test, because they are afraid their responses will be used against them.

"There are several officers who are saying that they will not be taking the tests, because they have to communicate with criminals to gather information. The types of questions that they ask are skewed along certain lines. Therefore, when they ask if you are connected to criminals and you answer in the affirmative, it is used against you," the person says.

Head of the JCF's Polygraph Unit, Deputy Superintendent of Police William Kessler, is however, rejecting the claims of the officers, saying that no one is reassigned or demoted based on a polygraph test.

"The result of a polygraph test is not the sole basis of a demotion. If that is the impression they are getting, then they should be seeking dialogue. It is unfair for persons to say that, and especially when they come, the test is explained to them," he said.

He says that many officers misunderstand the test and are not entirely truthful. In the same breath, he says that the majority of persons tested passed, and in certain instances it is used to clear officers of misconduct.

The officers, however, are still upset and say they have sought dialogue with the Police Federation for redress.

Head of the Police Federation, Sergeant Raymond Wilson, said his organisation had heard of the complaints, but he could not offer a comment, because he was not aware of all the details.