Our country has been faced with so many trials and predicaments lately that even the government is at a loss as to a way out. It has even been said it will get worse before it gets better, and certainly we have been seeing where that is not just an opinion, but a reality. Only, we don't know if it will ever get better.

Our security forces have the responsibility to serve and protect this nation and its people with courtesy, integrity and respect.

Taking on others' task

Policing in Jamaica, based on recent statistics surrounding crime, is not an easy task.

On the other hand, the question has been asked not only by human-rights groups, but by the Jamaican people: Are the police playing their role or are they trying to take on the task of other persons within the justice system?

Many times, a number of our police have played all three roles and have not even realised that the role they are requested to play isn't done properly or appropriately.

The police need to spend time doing their job and allow the jury and judges to do theirs.

Investigation is a very important part of policing and if a case is not investigated properly and accurately, innocent people could be chastised.

Forgotten fundamentals

Some police have also forgotten the fundamentals. For example, that a person is innocent until proven guilty and so they force themselves to convict and condemn innocent people.

While our politicians continue to ponder and deliberate over the resumption of capital punishment, let it be known that if our police continue to play the three-in-one game, innocent people will be executed or left hanging.

- Leron Mattison, leronmattison@yahoo.com