PROJECTS geared toward youth development will be the main focus of the new LASCO Police Officer of the Year for 2016/2017, Corporal Kimaryo Pinnock.
Corporal Pinnock, who was selected from 12 other colleagues, walked away with the award at a ceremony held at the Jamaica Pegasus hotel last Wednesday. His first project will be centred around values and attitudes, while the second, an interactive website, plans to target “youth on the corner”.
“They are geared toward the holistic development of youth in my community in St Thomas, and Jamaica in general,” Corporal Pinnock tells JIS News.
The corporal, who holds a Master of Science in Workforce Training and Education and a Bachelor of Education in Technical Vocational Education, and Training from the University of Technology, Jamaica, says he is passionate about education and training.
He describes them as the “most important conduits in upward mobility for achieving optimal productivity”.
Corporal Pinnock, who has been a member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) for the last 17 years, says that the award has a significant meaning. For him it represents a tangible symbol of the work he has put in, and his worth and his conduct in the force.
“It will serve as a motivational tool for me to even do better in the future, especially in support of the youth in my community,” he says.
To prospective men and women seeking to join the JCF, Corporal Pinnock argues that it is the best avenue if they are desirous of giving quality service to their community and the people of Jamaica.
Corporal Pinnock believes that engaging police officers in a robust education campaign of the disadvantages of corrupt practices is necessary to rid the JCF of corruption and to change the negative perception that some people may have.
Following his acceptance of the award, the Lasco top cop lauded the company’s 16-year commitment to the development of the JCF and the nation at large. He also thanked the Lasco founder and executive chairman, Lascelles Chin, for his continued partnership with the JCF through the programme.
Corporal Pinnock says he and the other 11 men will strive to live up to the exemplary conduct and service of the previous Lasco top cop for 2015/2016, Woman Sergeant Ava Lindo.Police Commissioner Dr Carl Williams has urged Corporal Pinnock to walk proudly with the banner of the JCF aloft. He pointed out that the other 11 men are among the finest in the force and are no different from the other members.
For his part, Chin lauded the bravery and courage of rank and file and senior members of the force. He also encouraged Corporal Pinnock to wear the Lasco badge of honour with dignity and “never, by your action or lack of action, bring shame to it or the JCF.”
The Lasco/JCF Police Officer of the Year programme continues to motivate and publicly acknowledge members of the force who demonstrate outstanding professionalism and dedication.