Created: Dec 08, 2009 10:00 AM
2009 murders top last year's totalKINGSTON, Jamaica – A recent spate of killings has driven Jamaica's homicide count to nearly 1,600 people this year – more than in all 2008 and approaching a record set four years ago. Assistant police chief Glenmore Hinds said Monday that in response to rising crime, authorities are launching an anti-gang effort in the capital, Kingston, and Clarendon and St. James parishes. He did not elaborate. Police say 1,574 people were slain in 2008. A record 1,674 were killed in 2005. The island is still seeking a replacement for ex-Police Chief Hardley Lewin, who resigned last month after the prime minister voiced concerns about spiraling crime.
2009 murders top last year's total
KINGSTON, Jamaica – A recent spate of killings has driven Jamaica's homicide count to nearly 1,600 people this year – more than in all 2008 and approaching a record set four years ago. Assistant police chief Glenmore Hinds said Monday that in response to rising crime, authorities are launching an anti-gang effort in the capital, Kingston, and Clarendon and St. James parishes. He did not elaborate. Police say 1,574 people were slain in 2008. A record 1,674 were killed in 2005. The island is still seeking a replacement for ex-Police Chief Hardley Lewin, who resigned last month after the prime minister voiced concerns about spiraling crime.
