Carl Gilchrist, Gleaner Writer

OCHO RIOS, St Ann:

JENNIFER KERR opened her Liberty Hill Great House in Lime Hall, St Ann, recently to host a farewell reception as the parish - and indeed the entire Area Two of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), which also includes St Mary and Portland - bade farewell to Senior Superintendent Carlton Wilson.

Wilson left St Ann after 20 months as commandant to take up a new post at the inspectorate in his capacity as a newly promoted assistant commissioner of police (ACP).

The turnout at Liberty Hill was impressive, showing that Wilson had been successful in earning the respect and love of not just those under his command, but the wider society.

Wilson has left at a time when St Ann is recording a 33 per cent reduction in major crimes.

Kind words came from all speakers. Mayor Desmond Gilmore congratulated Wilson on his promotion, saying he was not surprised in the least as it was well-earned and well-deserved. He urged residents to continue helping the police, pointing out that assisting the police meant helping themselves.

THANKFUL FOR SUPPORT

ACP Ealan Powell, while congratulating Wilson, said he expected his replacement, Superintendent Dudley Scott, to rise to the occasion and show that he merits the tag being placed on him. Powell commended civil society for its support of the police in St Ann and urged continuing support.

Scott spoke of Wilson's level of professionalism and work ethic and urged citizens to partner with the police in the fight against crime.

"I'm humbled, elated, and also glad," said Wilson in his reply. "The gathering tells me that I am thought of, and I do appreciate that."

Wilson spoke of his period in command of St Ann, noting that he was able to fulfil some of the promises he made when he went to the parish. He urged residents to give Scott the same kind of support he got and said citizens working with law-enforcement officers was the key to keeping crime under control.

In a symbolic gesture, Wilson relayed the baton of commandant of St Ann to Scott to applause from those present.

Among the JCF members present were Powell, who is in charge of Area Two; commandants of St Mary, Superintendents Cedric Allen and Linton Christie of Portland; Superintendent Scott; other senior officers; and heads of all the stations in the parish.

Also in attendance were Custos of St Ann Radcliffe Walters and Mrs Walters; Chamber of Commerce president, Leopold Williams; Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association area chair, Vana Taylor; Lance Neita of Noranda Bauxite; Horace Wildes of Jamaica Money Market Brokers; Dana Cuffe of Bahía Príncipe Hotel; among others, including representatives from Windalco Bauxite and Dolphin Cove.

rural@gleanerjm.com