Judiciary: Arrested motorists held in changing room, not bathroom

The Judiciary of Jamaica has refuted claims that motorists arrested during the recent Traffic Ticket Public Days were held in a bathroom at the National Arena. Instead, officials stated that individuals who could not immediately pay court-imposed fines were placed in a designated changing room.

According to a statement issued Tuesday, this room provided access to bathroom facilities and served as a temporary holding area while arrangements were made for the individuals' transportation to police stations or for fine payments. The Judiciary emphasized that these individuals were not part of the general public attending the event but were those who appeared before the court and were unable to settle their fines.

Officials maintained that the holding area was kept clean and hygienic throughout the event. A medical team from the Ministry of Health and Wellness was stationed nearby to address any potential medical needs. The Judiciary also noted that in several instances, individuals were given time to contact relatives or friends for financial assistance.

Preliminary data indicated that 10 people were taken into custody on July 8 and six on July 9 due to their inability to pay fines. The Judiciary reiterated that the Traffic Ticket Public Days aimed to provide an accessible way to resolve traffic matters, with the number of individuals taken into custody representing a small fraction of the total attendees.