The major challenges driving up Jamaica’s high level of murders and other major crimes

Insufficient diligence in case preparation by the JCF, which often contributes to the delays in the court system.

A lack of focus on gathering credible intelligence and admissible evidence for tackling serious crime, which is the most effective way of tackling it in a democratic society.

A police force which is undermanned by international standards.

Insufficient use of technology to aid in crime fighting, and poor mobility capacity within the JCF.

The message of impunity which results from the low conviction rates for serious crimes (only 50 per cent – 60 per cent in the Circuit Courts, and a shocking 30 per cent in the Gun Court), in which the delays and inefficiencies in the court system are a substantial factor.

Failure to implement the recommendations of the Joint Select Committee which extensively reviewed the Independent Commission of Investigations legislation to address deficiencies in its existing governance structure which concentrates, in a single individual, extensive powers of investigation and also power to prosecute, without checks and balances or any effective oversight mechanism.

Inadequate resources to address areas of deep social deprivation, especially the plight of so-called unattached youths, those tens of thousands of young Jamaicans who the education system has failed and who are left unemployed on the corner with little real hope for the future.

High levels of teenage pregnancy (children raising children), poor parenting skills and high levels of domestic violence, including child abuse in its various forms.

A culture which features poor anger management skills and a quickness to resort to violence in response to perceived disrespect.