The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) is reporting a decline in murders for 2024. Assistant Commissioner of Police Jeffrey James made the disclosure during a press conference held at the Police Headquarters in Roseau on Thursday.
“The Commonwealth of Dominica has reported a decline in murders for 2024 with 10 homicides recorded,” he revealed. “Out of [the] 10 homicides 6 were solved, marking a 60 percent solvable rate and a 44 percentage decrease as compared to the previous year.”
He continued, “Other crimes such as burglary, theft, and robbery have decreased as compared to the previous year.”
However, James revealed that there has been an increase in drug-related crimes with substantial drug seizures. As Christmas approaches the police force urges the community to remain vigilant and cooperate with the crime prevention efforts during the festive season.
“Overall, while violent crime appears to be decreasing, drug-related activities and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition appear to be on the rise, not only in Dominica, but in the entire region,” he stated. “That in itself is prompting the police to focus on public safety.”
James noted that to ensure public safety during the holiday season, various measures are being implemented.
This he said includes: increased patrol enhancing uniform and plain clothes patrols in the city, town, communities, and shopping centres.
“And that is to deter crime and provide a visible presence of the police,” James explained.
He also mentioned community awareness, where police are prompting awareness about crime prevention, urging residents to secure their homes and report any suspicious activity, as well as public safety tips advising citizens to lock their doors, avoid leaving valuables in vehicles, and to be cautious with strangers at their doors.
James pointed out that the majority of common crimes during the Christmas season include drunk driving.
“Increase in alcohol consumption leads to more driving under the influence incidents,” he noted. “Burglary- unoccupied homes and visible gifts make residences prime targets.”
James added, “Crowded stores provide opportunities for theft as holiday shopping peeks.”
Furthermore, he said in regards to street robberies and other robberies, more people out celebrating will result in increased street crime and criminals may attack gas stations, and shopping centres, as the greed or desperation concerning spending money increases during the holiday.
James mentioned fraud, noting that online theft and scams often rise as criminals exploit holiday spending. Additionally, James indicated that Crime Stoppers has been revamped and a hotline is available where the public can report on crimes. The number is 1-800-8477.
Deputy Police Chief Lincoln Corbette said police are actively investigating every murder including the four previously mentioned by James that have not been solved.
“We never [stop] investigating a murder until we solve it,” he revealed. “Because the nature of the crime is one that preoccupies the police and takes up a lot of the police time, so we never stop investigating…”
He added, “And even if we have not solved four, I can still say that we [are] very close to solving at least two of the four. I will not go into detail, but we have a fair idea as to who the suspects are.”
Corbette revealed that the recent shooting incident that occurred at Silver Lake last month, which claimed the life of 24-year-old Curtillia Charles is one of the crimes that is almost solved.
“We are very close [to] solving this and we are not giving up,” he said.
This guy Jeffrey James is a fake. My friend i don’t trust anything coming from your mouth. This CDPF needs leadership. You are clearly not a leader.
‘Drug related crimes’ – we the public don’t care about that, ghetto people have to make money and all you colonial system oppressive, so drugs have to run.
The murder rate drop and we love that!!! Make all you money without the violence, bless up dem drugs man!
Condolences to the family and friends of those who lost their lives
The murder of a young hard working mother has left a very bitter taste in the hearts and minds of our people. Tomorrow, Curtisha Princess Charles will be laid to rest; other than her mother and siblings, she leaves behind a four year old and other family members.What pain the family has had to bear,as frequent reports to the police were hardly ever noted. It’s a long and arduous road. Hopefully, the members of the CD Police Force, will make a positive and brazen effort to get this murderer(s) off the streets. We want justice . Rest ln Peace Cur.
Any data or statistics coming from this untrustworthy organisation should be independently verified before it is accepted as accurate. The CDPF distorts to create an image of competence.
To corroborate my point, consider the many cases that the DPP and prosecution had to withdraw due to the poor or improper collection of evidence, flawed statements and misinformation by the armed bandits (police).
The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force needs to be revamped. The best from society should be recruited not just the leftovers (mostly school dropouts) who are just looking for a pay day.