INDECOM cops NACOLE Achievement in Oversight Award
Published:Friday | October 5, 2018 | 12:00 AMSyranno Baines/Gleaner Writer
Jamaica's Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) this week became the first Caribbean and non-American recipient of the NACOLE (National Association for Civilian Oversight of Law Enforcement) Achievement in Oversight Award.
The award was presented last Wednesday at the 24th Annual NACOLE Conference Sankofa Dinner and Awards Ceremony in St Petersburg, Florida, in the United States.
In accepting the award, INDECOM's Commissioner, Terrence Williams, recognised the dedication of the oversight body even during challenging circumstances.
He further commented on the positive change happening within the police force, army and correctional services to improve standards and give more recognition to the rights of citizens.
In furtherance of INDECOM's resolute approach to independent investigations, Commissioner Williams affirmed that the agency will strive to ensure that there is rule of law, fairness and accountability.
The Achievement in Oversight Award recognises specific, significant accomplishments or contributions to civilian oversight by an individual, an organisation, or an agency, which has helped to further the field of civilian oversight of law enforcement.
INDECOM has been a member of NACOLE since 2015, and three members of the organisation's senior management - the assistant commissioner and two directors of complaints - have completed the NACOLE Certified Practitioner of Oversight Programme.
NACOLE is a non-profit organisation, established in 1995, that brings together individuals and agencies working to establish or improve oversight of police officers. NACOLE has worked to legitimise police oversight as a professional field of study and practice and has facilitated the development of professional standards. NACOLE began to formally recognise contributions to civilian oversight in 2001.