Bad cops must go! - JFJ demands action after policemen charged with triple murder

Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ) head Mickel Jackson says the recent murder charge placed on two police officers serves as a reminder that that the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) must get rid of "bad apples".

"This case is also a reminder that while we must stand with our law enforcement officers, we must never be blinded to the reality that there are a few bad apples that need to go. After all, a corrupt police officer or one who takes the law into their own hands is a dangerous one," she said.

On Sunday, Corporal Mark Roye and Constable Kelby White were charged in relation to the triple fatal shooting of 17-year-old Oshane Stubbs, 19-year-old Orando Campbell, and 20-year-old Kayshan Smith. They were fatally shot on November 10, along Windward Road. While commending the rapid progress made by the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM), leading to the charge of the cops who are allegedly involved in the shooting, Jackson stated that the incident highlights both the advancements made regarding police accountability, but also the challenges that remain concerning police misconduct.

"When one examines the charges brought against the officers, which include serious allegations of the disturbing act of planting weapons at the scene, this is a stark reminder of decades old documented problem when officers become executioners and pervert the course of justice as they try to get away with their unlawful actions. Over the years, these allegations of gross police misconduct include the planting of evidence, or removing it from crime scenes, and tampering with exhibits," she said.

Based on a ruling from the Office of the Director of the Public Prosecutions, the lawmen have been charged with murder, planting an object (firearm) at the scene, and lying to INDECOM. Both Roye and White is expected to make a court appearance later this week.

Jackson also stressed that the necessity for members of the security forces to have body-worn cameras has never been clearer.

"These devices serve as crucial tools for providing an independent and transparent account of police interactions with the public. It is imperative that the Jamaica Constabulary Force sends a strong message that failure to activate body-worn cameras will result in stringent penalties. This is not merely a recommendation; it is an imperative," Jackson said.