JCF anticipates 80% of its officers will be using body-worn cameras in three to four years

The Jamaica Constabulary Force anticipates that 80 per cent of its officers will be using body-worn cameras in three to four years.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Warren Clarke made the disclosure during a Jamaicans for Justice public forum on body-worn cameras on Wednesday.

DCP Clarke said due to the current shortage of body-worn cameras, there is only a 20 per cent penetration of cameras among officers on operation.

He said the police are very encouraged that they will succeed.

During the forum, Commissioner of the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM), Hugh Faulkner questioned whether the deployment of body-worn cameras is being prioritised where accountability, risks, and evidentiary needs are greatest.

In response, DCP Clarke detailed the strategic deployment of the JCF’s body-worn cameras, prioritising officers based on specific operational needs.

He said 38 per cent of the devices are deployed to officers on operational activities.

The issue of body worn cameras remains an issue of public concern and particularly in light of the number of fatal police shootings.