Hopewell Police Honor Taxi Drivers, Celebrate Station Anniversary with Commitment to Road Safety

HOPEWELL, HANOVER – The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) recently marked the anniversary of the Hopewell Police Station with a celebration that recognized the outstanding service of its officers and community members. Notably, two taxi drivers, Mr. Clude Reid and Mr. Paul Barton, were honored for their exemplary conduct and dedication to safe driving practices within the Hopewell Policing Area.

Mr. Clude Reid, a seasoned veteran with 30 years of experience in the public transportation sector and President of the Active United Taxi Association, expressed his sincere appreciation for the recognition. “To be recognized by the Hopewell Police, it’s something that I really appreciate,” he stated. “I believe it will help me personally to stay in line, because you know you are on the road every day, you come across different type of driving, different type of drivers, and sometimes it causes you to be overtaken, but I believe this helps me to stay in line and I’m very grateful.”

Mr. Reid also shared valuable road safety advice for all road users, emphasizing, “A word of advice to road users, you know, you have to take your time on the road, speed kills and the road sometimes can be very dangerous, but if you practice road courtesy and as I always said, if you’re even not my friend, road courtesy should be the hallmark, that should be at the forefront of every driver. And if you continue to practice road courtesy, then that will help you from getting to point A to point B in a safe manner.”

Mr. Paul Barton, another honored taxi driver, proudly shared his impressive 16-year record of maintaining a clean driving record, free of any traffic offenses, showcasing his unwavering commitment to road safety.

The Hanover Police, in conjunction with the station’s anniversary celebration, have redoubled their efforts to maintain law and order across the parish’s major townships. They are also actively engaged in educating motorists on the Road Traffic Act, aiming to enhance road safety and reduce accidents. The recognition of responsible taxi drivers like Mr. Reid and Mr. Barton underscores the JCF’s commitment to fostering a culture of safe driving and community collaboration.