Police Ball aims to bridge gap between officers, communities

"Over the years, the Police Ball has been an excellent vehicle to increase public awareness of the efforts of the St James police. We can get to know some of our security personnel in a more relaxed setting, and at the same time, boost their morale," he suggested.

The ball, which will be hosted at the Montego Bay Convention Centre, has been noticeably absent from the social calendar for a number of years. Its return has been made possible by overwhelming support from the business community and many individuals.

Profits from the black-tie affair, as well as a number of other efforts planned by the committee, will assist in sourcing some resources to help the police maintain their efficiency.

"We will also be assisting in training the individuals who work in the reception area in all 12 police stations in St James to receive visitors no different than the way persons are dealt with at hotels in the resort," Bailey stated.

To kick-start the process of transformation, three members of the St James Police Division will be awarded for their professionalism, community involvement, awareness, and deportment during the ball.

The three were selected from a list of 10 finalists, who were subjected to two weeks of intensive interviews by a team led by president of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Davon Crump. Among the finalists are Constable Howard Thompson, Motorised Patrol Division; Corporal Shamar Grant, Marine; Constable Jermaine Salmon, Coral Gardens; Constable Molcary Robinson, Mount Salem; Constable Delano Peterkin, Spring Mount; Corporal Odel Grant, Community Safety and Security; Constable Kingsley France, Montego Hills; Special Constable Raynor Kirlew, Montego Bay; Corporal Richam Davis, Divisional Training Suboffice; and Woman Corporal Lorren Knott of the Montego Bay station.

"The evidence is clear that this Police Civic Committee is a winning product and one that all involved should be proud of," said chairman of the Police Federation, Constable Franz Morrison, at the committee's official launch recently.

"I am proud that the St James Police Civic Committee wants to partner with us in finding ways to boost the morale of our members because normally things would go the other way where it would be us seeking out private sector partners."