The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has launched an investigation into a fight that erupted between an off-duty officer and partygoers at an event in Lawrence Tavern, St. Andrew, on Sunday morning.
Portions of the altercation were recorded by bystanders, and the footage subsequently went viral after it was circulated on social media. According to reports, the officer was speaking with a woman sometime between 5 a.m. and 6 a.m. at the party, which was held in the Track Gate community.
Some reports that have not yet been confirmed suggest that the policeman and the woman were dancing when he was allegedly approached and confronted by a group of men. Initial reports further indicate that one of the men may have been the partner of the woman.
The policeman was reportedly forced to draw his licensed firearm to protect himself, and the men dispersed. One of his alleged attackers fell during the incident, and the officer later detained him.
Reports state that police investigators took statements from both men; however, the civilian chose not to pursue the matter further. The officer’s firearm was seized as the JCF’s probe continues.
While what caused the confrontation between the men is not yet clear, the officer, who was wearing a blue shirt and white jeans, can be seen apparently defending himself against the men in a video clip. While the selector at the party pleads with the men to stop, multiple of them attack the officer, two of whom were seen hurling beer bottles.
The main individual with whom the officer was seemingly having the confrontation appears to have been a heavyset male in blue denim and a white marino. In a video recorded later during the altercation, the officer can be seen with his firearm drawn and standing over the man on the ground.
- The officer is also seen pointing his weapon multiple times at the man’s face before seemingly striking him. Eventually, bystanders are able to separate the men and end the confrontation. Watch the video below.
