JCF says deployment of 1,000 body worn cameras is in an advanced stage

The Jamaica Constabulary Force, JCF says the deployment of 1,000 body worn cameras is in an advanced stage and more of the devices are being procured.

The update was provided this afternoon.

It follows renewed calls for the use of bodycams by members of the security forces.

The calls intensified after several fatal shootings, this year.

In a statement, the JCF confirmed that it has received 1,000 body-worn cameras which were in an advanced state of procurement during the final quarter of 2025.

It said in September 2025, Police Commissioner Dr. Kevin Blake advised the country, during a nationally broadcast interview, that the force was in the final stages of this landmark acquisition.

The constabulary said since that time, and despite the significant disruption caused by the devastation of hurricane Melissa, the procurement process was successfully completed.

According to the JCF, the Axon body camera iii devices are now at an advanced stage of deployment, with particular focus on formations of the force that experience high levels of citizen engagement.

Deployment is being guided by operational need, training readiness, and established governance protocols.

The JCF added that the procurement process for a further 1,000 body-worn cameras is now in train,

with the intention of completing acquisition and deployment during the next financial year.

JCF said the acquisition and active deployment of these bodycams firmly institutionalise

accountability for both the police and the public.

It noted that these devices create an objective and verifiable record of police–citizen interactions, holding all parties to a clear standard of lawful and responsible conduct.

The JCF said the devices protect the rights of citizens while also safeguarding police officers who operate within the law, reducing false allegations, resolving disputes through evidence and strengthening professional oversight.

The JCF stated that it has consistently been transparent in the publication of information and updates regarding the implementation of body-worn cameras.

It said it has been forthright about both the challenges and limitations encountered, as well as the significant progress achieved at each stage of the process.

Throughout this period, the JCF said it has had to contend not only with criminal elements, but also with deliberate misinformation and false narratives suggesting resistance to accountability.

The JCF stressed that it has always regarded the implementation of body-worn cameras as a central pillar of its transformation and modernisation agenda, reflecting a sustained commitment to professional, transparent, and technology-enabled policing.

It said this initiative represents a significant step in enhancing transparency, reinforcing public confidence in policing, and deepening trust; grounded not in competing narratives, but in verified facts.