Former St Catherine Policemen Fined $500,000 Each in Corruption Case

Two former members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force have been ordered to pay hefty fines after being convicted on corruption charges stemming from an incident involving a motorist.

The men, identified as Ramone Boothe and Marlon Hamilton, were each fined $500,000 or face three months behind bars when they appeared before the St Catherine Parish Court on Tuesday.

Presiding over the matter, Acting Parish Court Judge Janelle Nelson-Gayle ruled that the seriousness of the offence outweighed any factors in the men’s favour. She further stated that their actions represented a breach of public trust placed in law enforcement.

During sentencing, defence attorney Michael Deans requested additional time for his client to settle the fine. However, the judge denied the application, instructing that payment be made immediately.

Court records indicate that the incident occurred on August 23, 2023, along Mandela Highway in St Catherine. The two officers were reportedly on duty when they approached a motorist whose vehicle was being towed.

It was alleged that the driver was asked to pay $3,000 to avoid receiving a traffic ticket. The money was reportedly handed over, and the matter was subsequently reported to the Inspectorate of Professional Standard Oversight Bureau, prompting an investigation.

Following inquiries, both men were taken into custody and later charged. They were found guilty in the St Catherine Parish Court on February 17.