JCF says persons should not resist being arrested amid viral video

The Jamaica Constabulary Force says members of the public should not resist when being arrested by the police.

The constabulary force says the police are empowered under the law to make arrests and there are proper channels for persons to challenge being taken into custody.

It issued that reminder amid criticisms arising from a video showing a confrontation involving a policewoman and a woman at a school in St Catherine.

The video has gone viral on social media platforms.

The police report that on Monday a team from the Spanish Town Police Station responded to a call from a primary school administrator requesting assistance to remove a disruptive parent from the compound.

According to the police, despite multiple attempts by the police to engage the individual peacefully, the situation escalated.

The woman was later arrested and charges such as assaulting the police and resisting arrest were laid against her.

The JCF says it is important for all members of the public to cooperate with police during any interaction, especially during an arrest.

In these circumstances, it is important to remain calm and comply with the police instructions, it stated.

“The JCF is committed to maintaining public safety and upholding the law with professionalism and respect. We urge everyone to assist in this mission by engaging with our members appropriately. Together, we can ensure that interactions between the public and the police are conducted safely and respectfully.”

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