Jamaican authorities are implementing an aggressive multi-faceted strategy to combat praedial larceny (agricultural theft) that has already yielded dramatic results, with conviction rates skyrocketing by over 2,000% in recent years. Franklin Witter, State Minister in the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, revealed these developments during a sensitization session with the Jamaica Constabulary Force in St Catherine.
The comprehensive approach encompasses five key pillars: enhanced traceability systems, rigorous enforcement and compliance protocols, widespread public education campaigns, strengthened institutional frameworks, and significant legislative reforms. This coordinated effort has produced remarkable outcomes – arrests surged from merely 78 cases in 2023 to 381 in 2025, while convictions exploded from just 9 to 209 during the same period.
Current statistics indicate 115 documented cases of agricultural crimes year-to-date, with Area 5 (encompassing St Catherine and St Thomas) accounting for 34 incidents. The financial impact has been substantial, with stolen produce valued at approximately $14.5 million. Law enforcement efforts have led to 102 arrests and 36 convictions to date, while recovering stolen goods worth $1.18 million.
Minister Witter emphasized the critical importance of farmer reporting, noting that underreporting effectively empowers criminals. He encouraged greater community solidarity among agricultural workers, urging them to “be each other’s keepers and supporters” through formal farmer associations.
The traceability component has been significantly enhanced through multiple systems including standardized receipt books, cattle tagging initiatives, and the Agricultural Business Information System. St Catherine has emerged as the most compliant parish, with farmers purchasing 591 receipt books between April 2025 and January 2026 alone.
Institutional strengthening includes the establishment of the dedicated Agricultural Protection Branch (APB), which treats praedial larceny as a direct threat to national food security. The APB provides focused attention on both thieves and those who purchase stolen produce.
Legislative enhancements under the Agricultural Produce (Amendment) Act, 2023 have substantially increased penalties, with fines up to $3 million and prison sentences of up to three years. The government has broadened the definition of agricultural produce, mandated dealer registration, and expanded receipt book accessibility. Strengthened laws now permit victim impact statements, giving farmers formal representation in court proceedings.
Ongoing public education efforts include targeted sensitization sessions in hotspot areas to promote registration, traceability, and community awareness about combating agricultural theft.