Jamaica’s Declining Murder Rate

Jamaica is on track to record fewer than 1,000 murders in a calendar year for the first time since 2003, according to Prime Minister Andrew Holness.

Speaking at the opening of Jamaica Packaging Industries Limited’s new $2 billion facility in Kingston on Tuesday, Holness said the country’s declining murder rate signals a turning point in the fight against crime.

“We will go below 1,000 murders [for] the first time in almost 30 years,” the prime minister declared, noting that the milestone would demonstrate to both local and international stakeholders that Jamaica is serious about becoming a safe destination for tourism and investment.

Historical Context

The last time Jamaica recorded under 1,000 murders was in 2003, when police data showed 976 killings. Now, based on current trends, the country appears poised to repeat or even improve on that statistic. Between January 1 and April 26 this year, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) recorded 225 murders—a 36.6% drop from the 355 homicides reported during the same period in 2024. That translates to 130 fewer murders.

Murders for Year 2001 to 2022. Source: JCF

Broader Decline in Crime

The national drop in murders reflects a broader decline in major crimes across the island. Shootings have fallen by 30.7%, from 352 to 244 incidents. Injuries from violent crimes are also down by 42.9%. Rape cases have seen the steepest decline, falling nearly in half from 148 to 78—a 47.3% decrease. Robberies dipped slightly by 4.9%, while break-ins were the only major crime category to increase, rising 23.8% from 290 to 359 reported cases.

Overall, major crimes have decreased by 18.2% nationally, with 1,120 reported incidents so far this year, compared to 1,370 during the same period last year. Several parishes—most notably Westmoreland, St. James, and Hanover—have seen sharp reductions in violent crime. However, areas like St. Andrew South and St. Catherine South continue to struggle, with little to no improvement and slight upticks in some categories.

Positive Trend and Future Prospects

Still, the general trend paints a picture of a country moving in the right direction. Holness framed the progress as part of a broader national effort to boost investor confidence and improve quality of life.

“This is not just a statistic,” he said. “It’s a message to the world that Jamaica is committed to creating a secure and prosperous future.”

Conclusion

Jamaica’s declining murder rate is a positive sign for the country, indicating a turning point in the fight against crime. The decline in major crimes across the island reflects a broader effort to improve safety and security, and the government’s commitment to creating a secure and prosperous future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the current murder rate in Jamaica?

A: Jamaica is on track to record fewer than 1,000 murders in a calendar year for the first time since 2003.

Q: What is the significance of the declining murder rate?

A: The decline in murder rate signals a turning point in the fight against crime and demonstrates Jamaica’s commitment to creating a secure and prosperous future.

Q: Are other crimes decreasing in Jamaica?

A: Yes, major crimes have decreased by 18.2% nationally, with declines in shootings, injuries from violent crimes, and rape cases.