Jamaican law enforcement officers honored at JAMLEO awards gala in New York

Jamaican law enforcement professionals and community leaders were recognized for their outstanding service and contributions to Jamaica and the diaspora during the Jamaican American Law Enforcement Organization’s (JAMLEO) fourth annual Scholarship and Awards Gala, held November 6 at the Floral Terrace in Floral Park, New York.

Among the honorees was Deputy Superintendent of Police Garnet H. Sappleton of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), who received JAMLEO’s Leadership Award.

The recognition came shortly after Sappleton was awarded the Medal of Honour for Meritorious Service during Jamaica’s National Honours and Awards ceremony on National Heroes Day.

JAMLEO President Lieutenant Danae McFarlane praised Sappleton’s achievements, describing them as a reflection of his dedication, professionalism and longstanding commitment to public service.

Several other law enforcement professionals were recognized during the ceremony, including Chief Martine N. Materasso, who received the Excellence Award, and Deputy Inspectors Douglas Moodie and Venice Gayle, who were presented with Trailblazer Awards.

McFarlane received the Visionary Leadership Award, while SDS Christopher Neil was honored with the Detective Dillon Stewart Heroism Award.

New York City Police Department (NYPD) Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch received the Lifetime Achievement Award, while Captain Leon Britton of the New York City Department of Correction was presented with the Pinnacle Award.

The President’s Award was presented to retired Detective Kenton H. Fraser and Ruth Tulloch, while Irwine G. Clare Sr., chief executive officer of Team Jamaica Bickle, received the Community Award for his contributions to the Jamaican community.

Speaking at the gala, Tisch expressed appreciation for the recognition and highlighted the important role Jamaican heritage officers continue to play within the NYPD.

She revealed that more than 1,300 members of the department are of Jamaican heritage, noting that their service has helped shape the NYPD while providing positive examples for younger generations.

Tisch also commended JAMLEO for establishing a network that allows officers to celebrate their Jamaican roots while strengthening professional relationships and cultural connections.

Highlighting the organization’s commitment to education, she disclosed that JAMLEO had provided full tuition assistance to 84 students in Jamaica during their final year of high school over the past two years.

Jamaica’s Consul General to New York, Oliver Mair, also praised JAMLEO for its contributions to law enforcement and the wider Jamaican community.

Mair said the organization’s members have demonstrated a commitment to service that extends beyond their professional duties, including mentoring young people, assisting families facing difficult circumstances and strengthening relationships between the NYPD and Jamaican residents.

He also highlighted JAMLEO’s efforts to preserve Jamaican culture through initiatives such as its Jamaica Independence Heritage Night and participation in Jamaican and Caribbean community events.

The consul general encouraged attendees to support JAMLEO’s scholarship program, emphasizing the difference financial assistance can make in the lives of students and their families.

He urged individuals and businesses to contribute to the initiative, sponsor scholarships and help the organization expand its educational and community outreach programs as Jamaica prepares to celebrate its 65th anniversary of independence in 2027.

Founded on January 24, 2020, JAMLEO brings together law enforcement professionals of Jamaican descent to promote professional development, increase Jamaican representation in law enforcement and preserve the island’s cultural heritage.

The organization also supports educational and humanitarian initiatives benefiting communities in Jamaica and the United States.