Chang says JCF uniforms not built for body cameras, defends policing reform stance

WESTERN BUREAU: Minister of National Security and Peace, Dr Horace Chang, is pushing back against what he describes as an exaggerated faith in body-worn cameras as the answer to Jamaica's long-running policing problems.

"Bring me one research paper, just one, that shows cameras, by themselves, solve the problem," Chang said on Wednesday while attending a pipeline project event in Montego Bay, St James. "There are many other issues. Cameras don't stop crime."

The minister addressed reporters after coming under fire for his recent declaration that security forces personnel will not be required to wear body cameras when carrying out operations against armed criminals. Civil society organisations have raised alarm over the position, particularly with respect to accountability inside the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

Chang, however, maintains that the conversation has been reduced to a simplistic argument. He contends that confronting crime demands far more than rolling out recording equipment, and instead pointed to systemic shortcomings that he says require urgent intervention, among them training, leadership, discipline and operational capacity.

"The current uniform was not designed with body cameras in mind. You cannot just add technology without rethinking the entire system," the minister said.

While acknowledging that body cameras can support the gathering of evidence and improve transparency, Chang argued that the devices are no substitute for sound police work.

"Technology is important, yes, but it does not replace proper police work. You need intelligence, communication systems, and trained personnel who know how to manage a crime scene and conduct investigations," he said. "Culture is not changed by cameras. We change it by training, by improving leadership, and by ensuring professionalism across the force."

The minister also raised concerns about how crime scenes are handled, suggesting that public confidence is being eroded not solely by the absence of cameras but by what is seen as deficient investigative work.

"You can't fix poor investigation with a camera," he said. "If the system is not professionalised, if officers are not properly trained, the outcome will not change. Some people say 'give them cameras' because they don't trust the police, but trust is not built by a device. It is built by conduct, accountability, and leadership."

Jamaica has long faced criticism over fatal police encounters, with watchdog bodies and human rights groups pressing for stronger oversight. Chang, though, cautioned against pinning hopes on the wrong remedies.

"You cannot design a police force around suspicion alone. You build it on standards, discipline, and responsibility," he said.

He said the priority in the current crime fight is delivering outcomes rather than acquiring equipment. "Our job is to find the criminals who are killing Jamaicans, get them off the streets, charge them, and ensure justice is done," he said.