Russell champions sports as MVP to kick crime to kerb
Published:Tuesday | December 17, 2024 | 12:09 AMBryan Miller/Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
Superintendent Carlos Russell, the Area One operations officer in the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), has emphasised the transformative power of sports in transforming communities, particularly in its potential to reduce crime and violence.
He is urging individuals, social groups, and businesses to support the promotion of sports among the nation’s youth as part of a broader effort to encourage positive lifestyles.
“If we [in Jamaica] are serious about reducing crime, then our focus must be on these youngsters,” said Russell, while addressing the Montego Bay Cricket Club’s Awards Dinner in the St James capital on Sunday. “We have our fair share of violence, with over 1,000 murders per year, and here in St James, for 2024 alone, we would have recorded 123 murders [so far] … . It is not something that we in the JCF are comfortable with.”
Russell highlighted that most crime victims and perpetrators in Jamaica are young people aged 16 to 24, a demographic that is also at the ideal age for participation in sports.
He said it is not enough to just talk about society’s ills without also putting suggestions on the table, noting that among the solutions to crime should be a look at how more youth can be engaged positively to steer away from crime.
“That is where sports come in. Sports does not only develop individuals physically, but it also helps in the development of character, discipline and teamwork,” said Russell. “When young people get involved in sports, they learn to channel their energies positively. Instead of getting into trouble, they are getting into shape, and getting better ideas, learning responsibility and forming friendships.
“Being part of a team, they learn the value of hard work, determination and discipline. They also get something many of them are craving for, which is positive role models,” said Russell, in noting the “a sense of belonging” as an additional benefit generated through sports.
“A lot of the youngsters who get involved in crime do so because they are looking for acceptance. Unfortunately, they often find it in the wrong places, but when they join a sports team, they find for themselves a family and a community that supports and pushes them to be better,” he reasoned.
During the function, 10 individuals were recognised for giving yeoman service to the club over many years. They are Jerry Reid, Adrian Grant, Westmore Thomas, Cecil Fletcher, Carl Mahoney, Dr P.J. LLoyd, Edgar Bell, Lloyd Hamilton, Lynford Jonas, and Vernon Tulloch.