Ellington responds to resignation calls

Police commissioner Owen Ellington yesterday responded to calls made by the People's National Party Youth Organisation (PNPYO) for him to resign.

Ellington said he respected the right of members of the public to question every instance in which the police use deadly force and to demand accountability from the leadership of the force.

"I take full responsibility for the implementation of policies and procedures to ensure that police use of force accords with citizens' rights and expectations," he said.

Ellington said he has been keen to discharge such responsibility, as indicated by several measures he has implemented.

He mentioned that the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) use-of-force policy has been revised and promulgated for the general information and guidance of all members of the force as well as to educate the public, and that all courses conducted within the JCF include instructions on human dignity and the upholding of human rights, including use-of-force standards.

Ellington listed several other measures aimed at ensuring that the rights of citizens are respected.

"The records will show that fatal shootings by the police have been in decline in recent years. Indeed, the figures for 2012 show continuing decline which, if it holds, could see this year ending with the lowest figure in seven years," he stated.