JFJ reiterates call for police body cameras amid Cherry Tree Lane fatal shooting

Human rights lobby group Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ) is reiterating its call for the mandatory use of body cameras, particularly in planned operations, by the police amid the fatal shooting of a man in Cherry Tree Lane, Clarendon.

The family of 22-year-old Jamar Farquharson has accused the police of wrongdoing, which they have denied.

Video footage from inside the house shows Farquharson opening his door and raising his arms in apparent surrender to police officers.

The police reported that he was fatally shot during a confrontation.

Questions have been raised about the alleged tampering of the security footage at the house.

JFJ, in a statement on Tuesday, argued that the circumstances surrounding his death raise serious concerns about police conduct and accountability.

It said the situation requires transparency.

"This incident demonstrates that standard body cameras are fully adequate for planned or tactical operations, since no rugged terrain or specialised equipment was required," said JFJ.

"We therefore reiterate our call for some of the cameras now being procured to be designated for use in these operations," it added.

JFJ said the time is right for Police Commissioner, Dr Kevin Blake, to update the public on the status of the procurement process and the intended deployment of body cameras within the Jamaica Constabulary Force.

"We urge citizens to join in the call for the mandatory use of body cameras, as they provide critical answers about what may have happened before, during, and after an incident, ensuring accountability and justice."

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