Glenroy Sinclair, Assignment Coordinator

Senior detectives at the Criminal Investigation Bureau (CIB) headquarters in downtown Kingston are probing a case of corruption involving two civilians employed to the bureau.

The two were arrested and charged in connection with the sale of criminal records.

Roland Smith, a records clerk, who has worked with the department for the past four years, and Oneil Mason, a messenger with two years' experience, have been charged with breaches of the Corruption Act.

Given station bail

They were reportedly given station bail, and are scheduled to appear in the Corporate Area Criminal Court on Tuesday, February 27.

Director of Communication for the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), Karl Angell, described the arrest as part of the strategy of Police Commissioner Lucius Thomas to tighten up procedures in the police force.

He said while corrupt cops were being targeted and eliminated from the force, the Police High Command was also focusing on civilians working in various police departments and involved in acts of corruption.

There have been frequent allegations in the past of persons with criminal records finding ways to beat the system and obtain falsified documents.

According to an officer at the CIB headquarters, when applying for a police record, one must produce two photographs, accompanied by a valid driver's licence, passport or a national identification card.

"If you do not qualify for a police record, you will be issued with a conviction letter," said Superintendent Terrence Sanko.

Applying for a police record

Pay application fee at Ministry of National Security ($1,500-$2,500).

$2,000 for express service over three working days.

$1,000 for regular service over 21 working days.

Next step, go to 34 Duke Street, downtown Kingston, to be fingerprinted.

glenroy.sinclair@gleanerjm.com