NL Journal of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences
(ISSN: 3108-0502)

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The Psychological Dilemma of Police Killings in Jamaica: A Public Health Perspective

Author(s) : Paul Andrew Bourne*.
DOI : 10.71168/NMP.02.01.122

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Abstract

Police killings in Jamaica have intensified public debates and raised significant concerns within public health discourse, particularly regarding their psychological consequences. This paper examines police-inflicted fatalities through a public health lens, focusing on mental health outcomes for communities, families, and police officers. Using secondary data from oversight bodies, national crime statistics, and peer-reviewed studies, the paper situates police killings as a population-level health risk. It highlights trends showing rising police killings despite declines in overall homicide rates. Psychological trauma, fear, and institutional distrust are identified as key mediating pathways linking police violence to adverse health outcomes. The analysis underscores the need for trauma-informed policing and health-sector collaboration. Public health–oriented policy responses are proposed to mitigate long-term psychological harm. Keywords: Police killings, Public health, Psychological trauma, Community mental health, Institutional trust, State violence, Jamaica.

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