KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaica’s judicial administration has confirmed the complete preservation of all court records following the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, leveraging robust digital and physical protection systems to prevent any loss of critical legal documents.
Kadiesh Jarrett-Fletcher, Director of Client Services, Communications and Information at the Court Administration Division (CAD), provided explicit assurances to concerned citizens regarding the integrity of judicial materials. “We recognize public apprehension about case files, particularly for ongoing legal proceedings,” Jarrett-Fletcher stated in an interview with JIS News. “Our integrated approach combining electronic archiving with physical safeguards has successfully protected all court records despite the hurricane’s severity.”
The administration is concurrently addressing technological challenges arising from storm-related disruptions. Judicial facilities maintained operational continuity through backup power systems, with officials ensuring continuous generator refueling to sustain electricity-dependent operations. “Our preparedness included emergency power provisions at most court locations, enabling maintained functionality during grid outages,” Jarrett-Fletcher explained.
Progress in restoring regular services continues as power returns to western parish towns where numerous courts operate, gradually reducing dependence on temporary power solutions. The strategic deployment of Starlink satellite internet systems has further enhanced connectivity restoration efforts across affected jurisdictions.
While acknowledging persistent connectivity challenges, Jarrett-Fletcher expressed measured optimism about recovery progress: “We’re effectively managing remaining technological limitations through satellite solutions and restoring conventional service providers. The judiciary is steadily progressing toward full operational normalcy.”
The CAD maintains ongoing surveillance of all judicial facilities nationwide to guarantee uninterrupted public access to justice services while continuing post-hurricane recovery operations.