An Overview of Attrition in the Jamaica Constabulary Force

Abstract

Introduction: For decades, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF or Force) experienced high attrition rates among its members. An author in The Jamaica Gleaner quoted Major General Antony Anderson, a former Commissioner of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, on June 3, 2023, indicating that the Force was "facing the loss of approximately 450 JCF members annually." The departure of over 450 members annually will lead to a loss of experienced officers, which can affect the Force's overall performance and ability to maintain public safety. The Economic and Social Survey of Jamaica for 2022 supported the Gleaner report. A 2023 report by the Private Sector Organization of Jamaica (PIOJ) showed that 336 officers left the JCF in 2022, with resignations accounting for 43.7% (146 officers), while 39.1% (131 officers) retired, and ten (10) officers died tragically. During the same period, 564 persons (452 males and 112 females) joined the Force, 28 fewer than in 2021 (Economic and Social Survey of Jamaica, 2022).

Objectives: This research aims to analyse career development opportunities as determinants of attrition among the JCF, investigate external societal perceptions and economic conditions that may contribute to attrition within the JCF, and assess the impact of job satisfaction on attrition rates within the JCF.

Methods and Materials: A standardised web-based questionnaire was used to collect data from members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force using data from January 2016 to December 2019, as well as an interview schedule to obtain qualitative data.

Conclusion: Culture, compensation, satisfaction, and demographic factors are all determinants of attrition in the JCF. Attrition amongst males is more prominent than among females.