Justice Minister Delroy Chuck condemns JP dashboard decals exploited at police stops

TRELAWNY — Justice Minister Delroy Chuck has taken a firm stand against justices of the peace who display decals on their vehicle dashboards identifying themselves as JPs, calling the habit pointless, out of line, and increasingly misused by offenders. Addressing 19 newly sworn appointees at a ceremony held Friday at Glistening Waters Restaurant in Rock, he said the problem is undermining road enforcement and has become serious enough for him to discuss it with Commissioner of Police Dr Kevin Blake.

"You have criminals now buying [decals used by JPs] and putting them in their vehicles; and when the police stop them, they point to it hoping the police won't search them," Chuck said.

He further noted that placing the Government of Jamaica Coat of Arms on such stickers is not permitted. "The protocol office of the prime minister says you should not use the Coat of Arms without permission," he warned.

Chuck also used the event to repeat his concerns about what he described as a rising sense of self-importance among some justices. "Police officers tell me they stop a vehicle and before they can even ask for the papers, the person says, 'Do you know I'm a JP'" I think it is rude and arrogant!" he said.

The minister maintained that official identification systems are adequate. Under the National Identification and Registration Authority, JPs who already hold a national ID can reapply for one that reflects their designated status.

"The most important identification you must have is your national ID, and it will show that you're a justice of the peace. When you are a person of outstanding character, people will know. You don't have to tell them," he told the new appointees.

"By your conduct, by how you engage others, by how you speak to others – that is how you will be judged," he added.