Law Enforcement encounters difficulties apprehending criminals within gated communities

Senior Superintendent Christopher Phillips of the St Catherine South Police Division has expressed concerns regarding access issues that law enforcement authorities are experiencing with some gated communities in Portmore. This topic was addressed during a town hall meeting held in Portmore.

Phillips emphasized that it’s crucial for the police to conduct investigations and that gaining access to communities is a necessary part of this process. He particularly appealed to the community leaders to facilitate the police instead of hindering their work. Through an incident at the Phoenix Park Village housing development, he pointed out that gated communities are not inherently safe from security challenges and therefore need to work in collaboration with the police.

According to Loop News, police say they have found out that criminal elements are seeking refuge in these areas. The most recent case was a man wanted for multiple crimes including attacks against several minors was found hiding in one of the gated areas. Senior Superintendent Christopher Phillips in Charge of St Catherine South police division, was one officer who spoke about the issue and how it was also affecting  highlighted instances where officers were obstructed while performing their duties, an issue that poses a threat to community safety.

“It has come to our attention that there are elements within gated communities obstructing the police when we attempt to carry out our responsibilities,” Phillips said.

“This not only hinders our ability to serve and protect but also emboldens criminal activities within these areas, which is unacceptable.”

The latest occurrences that highlight how serious the situation is give rise to the concerns. SSP Phillips described a startling incident in which a man from a gated neighborhood was taken into custody and accused of several offenses, including crimes against minors.

“We recently apprehended a suspect responsible for seven offences against a 14-year-old girl. During the arrest, we also discovered lead sheets and a prohibited weapon in his possession,” Phillips revealed.

SSP Phillips is issuing a warning, stating that impeding police operations is not only against the law but also dangerous for everyone’s safety. “I want to remind everyone that hindering police duties facilitates a dangerous environment for everyone, including the residents of these communities,” he emphasized.

The commanding officer made an appeal to the citizens of St Catherine South and beyond, urging them to collaborate with law enforcement to enhance safety and security.

“We are earnestly asking for your cooperation. Do not prevent us from entering your communities; rather, join us in our efforts to thwart criminal elements and ensure a secure living environment,” he implored.

Concluding his statement, Superintendent Phillips expressed a desire for unity and cooperation: “Together, we can forge a safer and more harmonious society. Your support is crucial in this endeavour. Let us collaborate to maintain the safety and security of our communities.”

The goal of the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s ongoing community engagement is to create a mutually beneficial partnership that benefits all stakeholders in maintaining public safety while also fostering a greater awareness of the difficulties faced by law enforcement.

Despite these issues, Phillips pointed out a decline in violent crimes in Portmore, mentioning the recovery of 30 illegal firearms since the beginning of the year, compared to only two seized in the same period last year. In his statement, he stressed the need for continued cooperation between law enforcement and communities to ensure public safety.