September 14, 2026 – An investigation by the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) into an assault incident involving two members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) was concluded following a successful court-appointed mediation with restitution to the complainant.

Constables Paul Banbury and Jason Hunter were charged with Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm following an INDECOM investigation into an October 17, 2024 incident involving a male civilian in Spanish Town, St. Catherine. The investigation resulted in a ruling from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) that both officers should be charged.

The matter went before the St Catherine Parish Court and was subsequently referred for mediation. Pursuant to the Mediation Agreement dated March 20, 2026, the officers agreed to make a total restitution of $255,000.00 to the complainant, which was paid in court on September 11, 2026.

INDECOM recognises formal court-appointed mediation as an important option for the timely resolution of appropriate assault offences. While successful mediation does not constitute a conviction or finding of criminal liability, it can provide meaningful redress to a complainant through an agreed compensation payment under the supervision of the Court.

Across a range of offences, INDECOM currently has more than 70 matters before the courts, following charges laid as a result of its investigations.

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