Commish issues directives on dress code

The Police High Command has issued directives to police personnel regarding the proper use of uniforms.

The move comes days after the murder of police constable Dowan Peart, who was allegedly killed by men dressed in police garb.

The constable was shot and his car stolen after he stopped by the roadside in Grange Lane, St. Catherine to help who appeared to have been policemen in need of assistance.

Police Commissioner Owen Ellington noted that in order to protect citizens and members of the force from criminals dressed in clothing similar to that worn by police personnel, all patrols must be logged at both the stations and the regional Police Control Centre.

Writing in this week’s Force Orders, the commissioner also instructed that all police personnel going on duty must be properly and fully attired in standard police working uniform with their regulation number displayed.

He emphasized that no accoutrement not approved and issued by the Police High Command should be worn with uniforms.

Commissioner Ellington also pointed out that with the exception of Mobile Reserve Personnel and members of Divisional Operation Support Teams, no member performing uniformed duties in public spaces should wear denim. 

He said in cases where denim is worn, it should first be stipulated by the Divisional Officer or Operations Officer in the duty schedule and documented in the station diary.

Ellington said police personnel dressed in plain clothes must first identify themselves in cases where they are accosting citizens in public spaces.

He is reminding that it is the duty of Shift Commanders and Station Supervisors to ensure his instructions regarding the wearing of uniforms are strictly complied with.

The police commissioner also noted that adherence to the measures are aimed at minimising exposure to criminal attacks and preventing police personnel from firing on colleagues.

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