McBean: Police Federation will not embrace rank-and-file members abusing civilians
Published:Saturday | June 15, 2024 | 12:09 AMAlbert Ferguson/Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
Chairman of the Jamaica Police Federation (JPF), Sergeant Arleen McBean, has warned rank-and-file members of the police force that they will not get her support should they choose to use their powers and abuse civilians.
Speaking at the St Elizabeth Police Divisional Conference and pre-Father’s Day luncheon held at the All American Institute of Medical Science (AAIMS) in Black River on Friday, McBean argued that abusing citizens is “backward thinking” that will not be embraced under her leadership.
“As I stand here as your representative, I will never encourage the Jamaica Police Federation to embrace any member of the JCF (Jamaica Constabulary Force) that abuses the citizens of Jamaica, because we have a sworn duty to protect, serve and reassure,” said McBean.
While she did not identify any specific incident of abuse that involved members of the JCF, McBean said members of the police force should not misuse those powers.
“Many times we believe that because we have that power under the Constabulary Force Act to do things, and we are decked out in our uniform we have a God-given right to abuse the citizens of Jamaica. That is backward thinking,” McBean said.
The JPF chairman also urged residents not to attempt to obstruct members of the force, pointing out that respect comes from those who show respect.
“And I will never embrace a citizen of Jamaica who obstructs the police in the lawful execution of their duties. You give respect and you get respect,” McBean stated.