Beyond the Badge: Lasco Top Cops of Area 3 Inspiring Community Trust
- Winsome M. Sherrier Witter
- Oct 13
- 3 min read
Community Safety and Security Live Forum Recap
In our October edition of the SRC Community Safety and Security Live Forum, hosted in partnership with the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) Area 3 Community Safety and Security Branch, we had the honour of spotlighting three remarkable officers, whose dedication to service, leadership and community upliftment across Clarendon, Manchester and St Elizabeth is nothing short of inspirational.
This month, under the theme "Beyond the Badge", we celebrated courage, compassion and commitment, qualities which define our 2025 Lasco Top Cops for Area 3.
Meet the Lasco Top Cops: Honouring Service and Heart
Corporal Rojehn Holt – Clarendon Division and Overall Lasco Top Cop for Area 3
Corporal Holt’s journey is rooted in youth mentorship and community transformation. His leadership in police youth clubs across Mitchell Town, Lionel Town and Salt River has guided at-risk youth toward academic success and national service. A powerful moment he shared was being thanked by a Jamaica Defence Force soldier, who had formerly been an at-risk teen, for changing his life path.
Key Message: "Integrity is everything. Without it, the public cannot trust us."
Sergeant Kemoy Johnson-Patterson – Manchester Division
Sergeant Patterson spoke passionately about outreach programmes in schools, mentorship of at-risk students and community-building partnerships. Her daily motivation is rooted in the positive changes she witnesses within the lives of young people. Her leadership qualities shone through as she reminded us,
"Policing is a calling, not just a career."
Key Initiatives:
16 active Neighbourhood Watches
9 Police Youth Clubs
1 Farmers' Watch Group (with another soon to be launched)
Corporal Rochel Henry – St Elizabeth Division
Corporal Henry’s focus has been on literacy and community engagement. Through her initiative "Read for Fun", she partnered with a local church to help children improve their reading skills, strengthening bonds between the police and local families.
Key Quote: "There are endless opportunities in the JCF for growth and service. Join us in becoming agents of change."
Community Partnership: A Pillar of Progress
All three officers agreed that partnerships with churches, schools, youth groups and local businesses are key to sustainable community safety. By building trust and working hand in hand, police and community members can create safer, more united spaces.
As Corporal Holt shared, “The police cannot do it alone. With strong community involvement, we can intervene early, prevent crime and shape better futures.”
Leadership That Goes Beyond Rank
Our Top Cops reminded us that leadership isn’t tied to title. It’s about integrity, respect, empathy, professionalism and consistent service. These values, when lived daily, inspire trust and foster accountability within communities and among fellow officers.
The Mental Wellness Factor
October being Mental Health Awareness Month, the officers also shared how they stay grounded:
Corporal Holt: Faith and mentorship from senior leaders
Sergeant Patterson: Family, self-care and daily purpose
Corporal Henry: Teamwork, service and resilience
Each acknowledged the importance of the JCF's internal mental health resources, including chaplaincy services and motivational programmes.
Transformation in the JCF: Technology Meets Trust
This forum also gave us a deeper look into the JCF's ongoing transformation, powered by leadership and innovation:
Body-worn cameras and Amber Connect for accountability
JamaicaEye CCTV for real-time monitoring
Drones for border and community surveillance
Online police certificate applications
SmartCheck devices for digital traffic ticketing
Level 3 certification for new recruits
Forensic upgrades, including the autopsy suite
These initiatives not only modernise the force but also enhance transparency and community confidence.
Community Involvement: How You Can Help
Our officers encourage all Jamaicans to:
Join or support your local Police Youth Club or Neighbourhood Watch
Encourage youth involvement in community groups
Collaborate with local police to address safety concerns
Engage with the JCF through outreach and cultural events
“Working together is not optional; it’s essential,” said Sergeant Patterson.
Replay the Forum
Couldn’t join us live? Don’t worry. Watch the full replay of the forum here:
We encourage you to share it with aspiring officers, community leaders and youth groups.
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Let’s keep building safer, stronger communities together.
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