The Jamaica Constabulary Force are the ‘The Envy of every Caribbean Nation,’ Says Bermuda Police Chief

Caribbean Law Enforcement Bodies Urged to Follow Jamaica’s Lead as Crime Plummets

The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has emerged as the gold standard for crime reduction and police transformation in the Caribbean, according to Bermuda’s Commissioner of Police, Daren Simons. Speaking at the launch of the JCF’s Transformation Expo 2.0 on Thursday, Simons lauded Jamaica’s impressive progress and declared that the nation’s recent achievements have made it “the envy of every Caribbean nation.” He urged regional governments and law enforcement bodies to follow Jamaica’s example in their own efforts to reduce crime.

Bermuda’s Commissioner of Police, Darrin Simons, praised the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) for its remarkable achievements in reducing crime, describing the island nation’s progress as “the envy of every Caribbean nation.” This endorsement came during his speech at the JCF’s Transformation People, Quality & Technology Expo 2.0 held in Kingston on June 19, 2025.

“While our region grapples with rising violence, Jamaica has forged a new path,” Simons said. “These changes are the envy of every Caribbean nation. Indeed, any police force the world over would celebrate numbers like these.” He cited the JCF’s groundbreaking results, including a 44% reduction in murders, a 20% drop in major crimes, and the lowest first-quarter crime figures in over 25 years.

Simons highlighted Jamaica’s impressive crime reduction statistics, including a 44% decrease in murders and a 20% reduction in major crimes, making it the country’s lowest crime rate in over 25 years. He noted that these improvements reflect the hard work and commitment of the JCF to addressing crime through a combination of enforcement and community engagement.

The Bermudian police chief credited Jamaica’s success to its “full F.A.T. policing” model, which emphasizes fairness, accountability, and transparency in law enforcement practices. According to Simons, the key to this progress is not just the rigorous work of the police, but the trust they have built within the communities they serve. He urged other Caribbean nations to take note of Jamaica’s strategy, which he believes can serve as a model for other countries striving to reduce crime.

Simons also stressed the importance of continued regional support for the JCF, noting that such backing from local and international partners is essential for sustaining these gains. He emphasized that public confidence in the police is a critical component of crime reduction, and this is something Jamaica has been able to foster through its community-centered approach.

Jamaica’s efforts in crime reduction have garnered international attention, and Simons’ remarks are a testament to the strides the island nation has made in improving public safety. Senator Marlon Morgan of the Jamaica Labour Party welcomed Simons’ endorsement, seeing it as a validation of the government’s commitment to supporting the JCF and its efforts in reducing crime.

This recognition by a leading law enforcement figure from another Caribbean territory highlights the regional significance of Jamaica’s policing strategies and their positive impact on safety and security. With continued support and innovation, the JCF is poised to maintain its position as a leader in crime reduction in the region.

Simons emphasized the significance of May 2025, a traditionally high-crime month that had now become the second safest May in over two decades, underlining the JCF’s ongoing success in reducing violence. “The numbers don’t just speak—they shout about what is possible,” he added.

As President of the Association of Caribbean Commissioners of Police (ACCP), Simons used his platform to highlight Jamaica’s leadership within the region. He pointed out that, while other countries continue to face the growing threats of organized crime and gang violence, Jamaica has proven that transformation in law enforcement is not only possible but achievable.

“Your police force has shown us a way forward. Commissioner Blake and his team haven’t just talked about transformation—they’re delivering it,” Simons declared, commending the leadership of the JCF.

He went on to describe the JCF’s approach to policing as “full-fat policing; not diet, not skinny,” referring to the force’s commitment to Fairness, Accountability, and Transparency (FAT). Simons praised the JCF for its transparency, pointing out that they have taken steps to reveal previously hidden aspects of policing to the public. He emphasized that this level of openness is crucial in building trust and fostering stronger community relationships.

“Community confidence isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s the very foundation of policing,” Simons said. “When communities trust the police, they share information. When they share information, we solve more crimes. And when we solve more crimes, we build even greater trust.”

Simons issued a direct call to action for regional political leaders and policymakers, urging them not to slow down their support for the JCF. “You’re backing a winning horse now. Don’t ease up on the feed,” he warned. “The JCF needs your financial support—and just as importantly, your public backing. Their success is your success. It makes people safer, increases investment, and boosts national confidence. When our leaders back the police, the public backs the police, and the cycle of community confidence repeats itself.”

Addressing the members of the JCF directly, Simons encouraged them to take pride in their accomplishments. “JCF has marked its course. Now continue to walk it. Share your plans with the community. The people you serve are watching—full of hope and ready to support officers who serve with integrity.”

Simons concluded his speech with a powerful message to the Caribbean: “The JCF has lit a beacon for the Caribbean. They’ve shown us that transformation is not just possible, but powerful. Now it’s time for us to carry that forward.”

As the Transformation Expo 2.0 continues, the message from Commissioner Simons is clear: Jamaica is no longer just participating in the regional conversation on security; it is leading it.