The Jamaica Constabulary Power (JCF) has confirmed that it has acquired and commenced the rollout of 1,000 Axon Physique Digital camera III units as a part of its ongoing modernisation efforts.
In a press release issued Monday night, the JCF stated the cameras are being distributed throughout the power, with precedence given to divisions that file excessive ranges of interplay between police and members of the general public. Officers famous that deployment choices are additionally being guided by operational necessities, officer coaching readiness, and established governance and oversight protocols.
The police excessive command additional disclosed that procurement is underway for a further 1,000 body-worn cameras. That course of is anticipated to be finalised through the subsequent monetary yr.
In accordance with the JCF, the introduction of body-worn cameras is meant to strengthen accountability for each officers and residents by creating an goal and verifiable file of police encounters. The power stated the expertise helps defend the rights of the general public whereas additionally safeguarding officers who act inside the legislation, aiding within the decision of disputes and decreasing the incidence of unfounded complaints.
The JCF additionally addressed what it described as persistent misinformation surrounding its method to accountability, insisting that it has constantly supported the usage of body-worn cameras. The power maintained that the initiative is a central part of its transformation and modernisation technique, aimed toward selling transparency, professionalism, and technology-driven policing.
Police officers added that the expanded use of physique cameras is anticipated to boost public confidence and belief, grounding police oversight in documented proof reasonably than competing narratives.
Advocacy teams, together with Jamaicans for Justice, have repeatedly urged the JCF to make sure body-worn cameras are used throughout deliberate operations, notably amid ongoing issues about police-involved killings.
