Bike Taxi and PPV Operators Among Key Offenders in Westmoreland Sexual Crimes, Says Police Commander

Westmoreland, Jamaica — Superintendent Othneil Dobson, commanding officer for the Westmoreland police, has identified bike taxi and public passenger vehicle (PPV) operators as significant offenders in cases of child sexual abuse and other sexual crimes within the parish. Dobson made the disclosure during the Westmoreland Municipal Corporation’s (WMC) monthly meeting on Thursday, while presenting his latest crime report.

According to Dobson, while the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) recorded a three percent national decline in sexual assault cases in 2024, Westmoreland’s statistics showed minimal improvement. Preliminary data indicates that the parish recorded 32 incidents of rape in 2024, one fewer than the 33 recorded in 2023.

Dobson highlighted a troubling trend where over 90 percent of sexual assault cases involve male perpetrators known to the victims, including biological relatives and close family friends.

“When you hear these numbers, it’s not a serial rapist. It’s normally somebody that is very close to the family, and I would say they account for 90-odd percent of the rapes reported in the parish,” Dobson explained.

This disturbing dynamic complicates investigations, as families often refuse to cooperate with law enforcement to shield perpetrators from legal repercussions. Organisations such as the Centre for the Investigation of Sexual Offences and Child Abuse (CISOCA) have consistently raised alarms about this issue, stressing that familial loyalty often takes precedence over justice for victims.

Dobson also expressed concerns about the role of bike taxi operators and public transport drivers in sexual crimes against children, describing them as major perpetrators. While specific statistics were not provided, he suggested that these individuals exploit their interactions with vulnerable children to commit offenses.

“The bike taxi man that carries home your child, and the taxi man who carry home your child, continues to be the major perpetrators,” he said, underscoring the need for vigilance and stricter oversight.

Dobson’s revelations come amid ongoing efforts by law enforcement to address sexual violence in the parish. His report sheds light on the pressing need for greater community awareness, stricter regulation of transport operators, and stronger familial accountability in preventing child sexual abuse.

Authorities continue to urge families and community members to report suspected cases of abuse and to cooperate fully with investigations to bring perpetrators to justice.