Police clarify assignment of close protection officers amid ‘limited resources’

The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has issued a statement to clarify how it assigns close protection officers (CPOs) to public officials, addressing public comments about the practice. The police emphasized that CPOs are specially trained members of the Protective Services Division (PSD), responsible for providing security to individuals whose roles or circumstances warrant it.

According to the JCF, the assignment of a CPO is not automatic. While certain constitutional and public offices inherently attract close protection, for others, a comprehensive threat and risk assessment is conducted. This assessment considers various factors, and its documented findings form the basis for determining the need for close protection.

Serving ministers of government are automatically assigned CPOs due to their positions and responsibilities. However, for former ministers of government who are members of parliament, the continuation of close protection is subject to the established threat and risk assessment process. If an assessment indicates that the risk level no longer justifies dedicated protection, alternative security measures may be considered.

The JCF stressed that CPO assignments are not arbitrary. Given the specialized nature of the role and finite resources, every assignment must be justified by a clear security need. The force stated its responsibility to ensure that limited resources are deployed where they are most required, guided by professional risk assessment, operational necessity, and responsible management of public funds. The overriding objective is to provide the appropriate level of security to those who need it most.