THE EDITOR, Sir:
AS Opposition spokesperson on national security, I wish to congratulate Detective Inspector Michael Grant on being named the Lasco Top Cop of the year for 2004.
I was really moved by reading the story of Detective Inspector Grant's rise from the ranks of unemployed youth in the inner-city community of Tavares Gardens (Payne Land), south-west St. Andrew, more than 20 years ago, to the position of being in charge of the Fingerprint Branch of the Criminal Investigations Bureau.
I think his story ranks among the finest I have heard about persons who have lifted themselves up from adverse situations to make a success of their lives.
I think he serves as a great role model for inner-city youths and I hope that his effort and success will be emulated by young people from these areas.
He has also served to restore some level of dignity and pride to a force beset by many criticisms about the behaviour of some of its members in various circumstances.
I hope his success will shine like a beacon lighting the path of all those who are genuinely committed to the force's mission and the continued fight against the monster of crime and violence.
I also wish to congratulate Constable Odale Mullings from the Lionel Town Police Station on being selected Rookie of the Year. His parish must be very proud of this achievement.
I congratulate Lasco for sponsoring these awards annually for the past five years.
In these trying times, the members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) deserve all the support they can get as they lead the fight against crime and violence in our
communities.
I am, etc.,
DERRICK C. SMITH
Opposition Spokesman
on National Security
