Tragedy Strikes in St Mary as Car Crash Claims One Life and Leaves Five Injured.

In the early hours of Saturday, June 29, 2024, a fatal motor vehicle accident occurred along the Belfield main road in St Mary, resulting in the loss of one life and leaving five others injured.

The tragic incident unfolded as a Toyota Corolla, carrying six individuals, was traveling eastbound along the Belfield main road. Suddenly, the driver lost control of the vehicle, causing it to overturn into a gully.

Following the crash, bystanders acted swiftly to transport the injured individuals to the Annotto Bay Hospital. Regrettably, Rhone Brown, aged 61, succumbed to their injuries, while the others were admitted for medical care. Fortunately, the authorities have confirmed that the survivors’ injuries are not life-threatening.

The Annotto Bay police have initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding this devastating event.

Property Owners Encouraged to Thoroughly Screen Potential Renters.

The Major Organized Crime & Anti-Corruption Agency is urging property owners to diligently screen potential renters to prevent inadvertently facilitating fraudulent activities.

According to Colonel Desmond Edwards, Director General of MOCA, there is a growing trend of lottery scammers using short-term rentals booked online as a front for their illegal operations.

Colonel Edwards emphasizes the importance of property owners conducting thorough background checks on prospective tenants to ensure their trustworthiness.

Furthermore, the head of MOCA highlighted that the agency has intensified its efforts and capabilities to effectively address cybercrime threats. It will continue collaborating with both local and international partners to disrupt, prosecute, and confiscate the proceeds obtained through lottery scamming and other criminal enterprises.

The Role of Policing Extends Beyond the JCF, Says SSP Manderson.

Acting Senior Superintendent Damion Manderson emphasized the importance of citizen engagement and support in policing at the St Andrew South Police District Consultative Committee Conference. He highlighted the value of partnerships with stakeholders and emphasized the collective effort required for citizen security.

The conference, attended by government representatives including Prime Minister Andrew Holness, focused on bridging the gap between police and citizens.

The committee, led by Pastor Patrick Jordon, has forged partnerships with various entities for community development activities, emphasizing consultation and collaboration for implementing safety measures.

Police were directed to reassess their methods of issuing tickets for cell phone usage.

The Police High Command has instructed officers to be more careful when issuing tickets to drivers using cell phones while driving. They acknowledged the public’s concerns and emphasized the importance of balancing road safety with fairness.

The JCF has the authority to issue tickets for using electronic devices while driving, aiming to enhance road safety. However, due to complaints about unfair ticketing, the High Command provided detailed guidelines to ensure tickets are issued appropriately.

They clarified that drivers should only be prosecuted if actively using the device while in control of the vehicle. Mounted devices displaying live images can also lead to prosecution.

The High Command assured the public of their commitment to fair law enforcement and stressed that officers not following the guidelines will face disciplinary actions.