The United States has released yet another damning report on Jamaica, giving the nation failing grades in human rights practices.

In the 2006 Country Report on Human Rights Practices, released yesterday, the U.S. primarily criticised Jamaica for its treatment of detainees and prisoners in the custody of the state.

It also pointed to serious problems including unlawful killings by members of the security forces.

The report also stated that there are allegations that police personnel andprison guards continue to abuse detainees and prisoners.

Lethal force

Referring to Jamaica's justice system as overburdened, U.S. officials said the police frequently use lethal force in apprehending criminal suspects, which resulted in 189 deaths, including 10 police officers last year.

There are also concerns about the capacity of the Bureau of Special Investigation, which probes police shootings.

In the meantime, the U.S. said well-armed gangs involved in trafficking in narcotics and guns continue to control many inner-city communities.

Public officials corrupted

Just last week, the U.S. released a separate report claiming that corruption among public officials was facilitating the drugs trade.

Meanwhile, the latest report on human rights practices is raising alarm about the length of time persons suspected of committing a criminal offence are held in custody without charge.

It also said that the law requires the police to present a detainee in court within a reasonable period, the authorities often detain suspects for up to three years.