Heather Robinson
THERE IS A VIEW among some members of the security forces that they ought to be automatic receivers of the public's respect. This is demonstrated in the way in which some members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force believe they can use force to commandeer this respect. In many of these situations where such respect is being demanded, conflict and a lessening of respect is usually the result.
A lot of publicity has been given to a recent incident between members of the Island Special Constabulary Force (ISCF) and a Jamaican woman in Half-Way Tree. Modern telephone technology has proven once again that it can record in a static form, events as they unfold. It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words, but there are no accompanying sound clips to tell us exactly what happened. A woman who is standing on one of Jamaica's busiest streets in her underwear is not a pretty picture.
EXPERTISE
What is clear to me is that our police officers have little or no expertise in restraining or arresting women or girls. About two years ago I was visiting the Half-Way Tree Police Station when I heard a big commotion. It was discovered that a special constable in trying to arrest a schoolgirl in Half-Way Tree square had actually sought to accomplish this by sitting on top of her on the road. The girl resisted. Eventually she was given a suspended sentence for assaulting the police officer.
Most motorists and pedes-trians who frequent Half-Way Tree are aware of the 'work' that is done in that area by members of the ISCF. Many can relate other experiences that they have had. What is the point of ticketing a lone male at 8:30 p.m., who is driving a heavily tinted SUV, for a minor traffic offence and not asking him if he has a firearm? Is it in the best interest of the public's security that the 'blue seam' police in this area are viewed as harassers of the public? What about the perception that they ought to be protectors of the public?
IMPORTANT ROLE
There is no doubt that our police officers play an important role in maintaining law and order in our country. But the easiest way to gain confidence and support of the public is by being professional. Simply put, if there are 10 things to be done in the recovery of a stolen motor vehicle, do them. Do not keep subjecting the victim of the gun robbery to new requirements every step of the way. If you are new to the process, seek and obtain the assistance of your seniors. And never expect that the victim will respond kindly to your incompetence. Provide opportunities for praise and commendation. Accept the criticisms of incompetence and a lack of professionalism when you have been negligent. The spotlight is on you, not on the victim and his family. You are the one doing a job, not the victim.
'Starting camera', 'standby camera' and 'saving' are on thousands of cellular phones. It would be a good thing if each police officer would behave professionally at all times. Remember that there might be a member of the public who is capturing the entire act.
While we await the outcome of the investigation of what happened in Half-Way Tree, our police officers would do themselves and the commis-sioner proud, if they were to practice what they are taught. And those who were not taught should either separate voluntarily from the force or be trained.
Professionalism has its foundation in one's attitude towards those whom you seek to serve. If you have the additional tasks of protection and reassurance, the responsibility is even greater. Respect me and I will respect you.
Heather Robinson is a life underwriter and a former Member of Parliament.
