Project STAR reports reduction in crime in targeted communities

Project STAR has reported significant success in reducing crime in the three communities it has been working with the longest — Savanna-la-Mar, Westmoreland, Parade Gardens and Rose Gardens, East Downtown Kingston.

Dr. Parris Lyew-Ayee, data scientist for Project STAR, shared the update during a recent donor breakfast at the S Hotel in Kingston, where the project team outlined its ongoing initiatives.

“One of the most remarkable outcomes has been observed in Savanna-la-Mar communities [Harmony Town, Seaton Crescent and New Market Oval] where, for nearly a year, there have been zero recorded major crimes. This accomplishment stands as a testament to the project’s long-term impact and strategic execution,” Dr Lyew-Ayee disclosed.

He also noted a significant reduction in violent crime in east downtown Kingston, particularly in areas that were once considered crime hotspots.

Dr Lyew-Ayee highlighted that this achievement was not a result of luck, but was instead driven by data-backed interventions and collaboration with local stakeholders and key partners such as the Jamaica Constabulary Force.

“Nothing is by chance,” he emphasised, noting that each intervention is calculated based on the data gathered.

Dr Lyew-Ayee explained that the initiative relies on continuous data surveys and that STAR’s data spans over 44 months of active monitoring. By working closely with the police and using granular data on every crime and event, Project STAR has been able to track crime trends with precision. He said this approach allows the project team to implement tailored strategies specific to the unique needs of each community.

Dr Lyew-Ayee also noted that the initiative doesn’t stop at analysing crime data but that the team also conducts asset mapping to understand the condition of local infrastructure, from homes to businesses, and integrates employment and education statistics to develop comprehensive vulnerability models.

This holistic view, he says, enables Project STAR to effectively identify and prioritise interventions in the most at-risk areas.

Dr Lyew-Ayee informed that Project STAR’s method also includes engaging residents directly, gathering feedback on the ground to ensure flexibility and responsiveness in addressing both crime and social vulnerabilities. Through this, the project ensures that its efforts are both scalable and sustainable.

Beyond crime reduction, Project STAR has invested heavily in community-building programmes such as parenting clubs, sports initiatives, and employment readiness and placement support, all of which contribute to long-term stability in these communities. While the project’s primary aim is to reduce crime, these broader initiatives help to create stronger, more resilient neighbourhoods, he stated.

Meanwhile, Dr Horace Chang, minister of national escurity who addressed the function, emphasised the importance of collaboration between the private sector and government organisations as demonstrated through Project STAR, which is initiated by the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica and the Jamaica Constabulary Force.

He highlighted the role of the business community in ensuring that these interventions are sustainable, pointing out that project STAR’s initiatives bring a level of accountability that inspires confidence, even in challenging environments. He said despite the challenges, there is hope for the future, particularly through initiatives like Project STAR.

“Project STAR has demonstrated the will to seek impactful programmes,” he said, urging more cooperation between the government, private sector, and social organisations.