COVE, Hanover — Seven decades after Jamaica’s inaugural youth club emerged in Sandy Bay, the parish of Hanover has inaugurated its newest establishment: the Cauldwell Police Youth Club. This initiative represents a strategic response to escalating criminal activities that have plagued the region, serving as both preventive measure and community bridge-building endeavor.
Formally unveiled during a Sunday ceremony at the Hanover Educational Institute—an institution with a 24-year legacy in youth development—the club signifies a transformative approach to community policing and youth engagement. Angela Hay, the club’s founder and a native of Cauldwell, described the distressing circumstances that precipitated this intervention: “I have witnessed the deterioration of Cauldwell to a state where murders became rampant, fear permeated daily life, and communal activities like religious gatherings and sporting events virtually ceased. Trust evaporated while segregation prevailed.”
Hay, who also established the Hanover Educational Institute, emphasized the club’s foundational philosophy: “Our youth matter profoundly. They require secure, supportive environments to cultivate talents, build self-confidence, and evolve into positive contributors who can actively shape their community’s future.” Her conviction stemmed from observing the damaging effects of economic inequality, scarce opportunities, and negative peer influences that drive antisocial behavior among young residents.
The urgent need for intervention gained stark visibility in July 2023 when Green Island Police disclosed children’s involvement in lottery scamming to fund education and sustain extravagant lifestyles. Inspector Mervin Hodges, then overseeing the Green Island Police area encompassing Cauldwell, revealed during a peace march that minors were being recruited into gangs by adults, with these activities subsequently spreading into educational institutions. Most concerning was the disclosure that individuals aged 18-26 perpetrated the majority of crimes in the region.
Custos of Hanover Lennox Anderson-Jackson endorsed the initiative as a critical partnership between the Jamaica Constabulary Force and local communities. “This collaboration transcends mere club formation—it represents trust-building and communication enhancement between law enforcement and citizens. Such synergy creates environments where youth feel supported and inspired to pursue constructive pathways,” he asserted during the launch ceremony.
Since its conceptualization following a community awareness meeting in December 2024 and subsequent weekly gatherings at Cauldwell New Testament Church of God, the club has demonstrated tangible impact. Members have engaged in hurricane relief operations, school enhancement projects including painting and gardening at Pell River Primary School, and community event organization such as Christmas dinners.
Currently comprising 30 active members, the club welcomes individuals aged 7-30 seeking personal development and positive community influence. Superintendent Courtney Coley of the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Community Safety and Security Branch joined Superintendent Andrew Nish (Hanover Police Division head), club president Caswayne Downes, and Custos Anderson-Jackson in celebrating this advancement in community-led crime prevention and youth empowerment.