Sometimes perceptions dont mesh with reality. For the first half of 2014, the Jamaican Constabulary Force has recorded an 8% decline in murders in Jamaica than the previous year's figures.
http://jis.gov.jm/murder-rate-january-june/
It may come as a surprise to many that there has been a decline in homicides in Jamaica so far this year, especially with all the attention the high profile killing of our old neighbor, Colin Lynch had on the internet. Had that not occurred, the "guesstimates" of a higher number of murders may not be of any discussion at all. Perceptions can mask the reality.
And for another possible surprise, following the lower murder rate island wide, the JCF has recorded a continued fall in all other categories of major crimes.
Living here gives one a more accurate accounting of actual incidents. You get a mental chart of trends from year to year. Many years ago, when crack was first introduced by foreigners to Negril, the homicides were more frequent although the guns were not the weapon of choice back then.
Last year (2013), due to the crack down by the JCF on the lottery scammers, the homicide rate was higher, which is one reason for the 8% drop in the murder rate this year.
And to point out an obvious fact, not a single one of these homicides were directed at any tourists. As with many crimes in any small region, it is often based on revenge and vendetta rather than any random occurrences.
With the increased actions by the JCF, the new ballistics systems being implemented on the island and dismantling of the criminal elements, we all hope that these decreases in all major crimes continue in the future.
Originally Posted by Rob
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