Glenroy Sinclair, Assignment Coordinator

Thomas

With thousands of people across the world making resolutions for the new year, for some it is just a change of a calendar, while for others it symbolises the beginning of a brighter tomorrow.

For retired Police Commissioner Lucius Thomas, it is an opportunity to wish for positive changes and the implementation of a social intervention programme that will help reduce the country's crime rate.

The two former commissioners, Francis Forbes and Lucius Thomas, were stern believers in the social intervention programme. They believed if it got the support, the programme would have a significant impact on crime.

"I wish the new Police Commissioner prosperity and success. I am also wishing for less members of the JCF (Jamaica Constabulary Force) to be killed this year," the retired Commissioner told The Gleaner on New Year's Eve, while disclosing his hopes for the new year.

Record policemen killed

Last year, a record 20 policemen were shot and killed by gunmen. Some of the more gruesome killings took place in the tourist capital of Montego Bay, St. James.

Although he has retired, the former commissioner's heart still goes out to the men and women of the JCF, especially the rank and file members, for whom he wishes a brighter future in 2008 and hope that their welfare issues are taken care of.

In his brief New Year's wish, Mr. Thomas said he was hoping more people will join in the fight against crime.

"If we don't play our part, then it will not work," said the retired commissioner, who also wished good health for everyone.

glenroy.sinclair@gleanerjm.com