The Office of the Public Defender has launched a wide-ranging investigation into the operation and effectiveness of Jamaica’s Sexual Offenders’ Registry amid mounting public concern over its transparency, accessibility, and ability to protect vulnerable groups—particularly women and children.
The announcement follows national outrage over the killing of nine-year-old Kelsey Ferrigon, a student from Job Lane, St Catherine, whose body was found in a barrel outside her home last month. Police believe she was sexually assaulted before being murdered. The suspect in her death was reportedly out on bail and had previously been charged with a sexual offence.
In response, groups across the diaspora, including the Global Jamaica Diaspora Council, called for a public sex offender registry in Jamaica. The Jamaican government has later responded, saying it is moving to review legislation governing access to the registry.
“The Office of the Public Defender has a duty to ensure that laws and public systems function as intended, without infringing on the constitutional rights of Jamaican citizens,” said Public Defender Carolyn Reid-Cameron. “This is not just a review of procedures—it is a holistic examination of how public safety tools must align with our constitution.”
Currently, access to the Sexual Offenders’ Registry is restricted to law enforcement, designated employers, and individuals with a proven “legitimate interest.” But following Kelsey’s death, critics have called for a review of whether the limited access undermines the registry’s purpose.
Reid-Cameron outlined that the investigation will assess three main areas:
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Statutory compliance: Whether the registry is being operated in accordance with the Sexual Offences Act, including its funding and administrative procedures;
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Operational effectiveness: Whether current access and usage guidelines are adequately protecting children and other at-risk groups;
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Constitutional balance: Whether the registry maintains the right equilibrium between personal privacy and public safety as required by Jamaica’s Charter of Fundamental Rights and Freedoms.
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The Public Defender’s office has formally notified the commissioner of corrections and the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Justice, who are expected to support the inquiry.
A final report will be presented to Parliament and made available to the public, subject to necessary redactions for confidentiality and security.
