September 24, 2008 – Ocho Rios, St. Ann, Jamaica…[Nigel Coke/IAD]
At a time in the nation's history when the security forces are viewed negatively by many individuals and confidence in law enforcement is at an all-time low, police officer Edgar Brown is doing his best to improve that image and maintain his Christian conviction.
Officer Brown, a member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Jamaica, had just left home in St. Ann with his daughter destined to Montego Bay when his journey was interrupted by a highway chase with robbers, where he recovered US$625,000 that was stolen. The money was returned to its owners.
Brown was presented with the Inspectors' Branch Board Integrity Award and commended by Prime Minister Bruce Golding and the Minister of National Security, Colonel Trevor MacMillan, at an annual Symposium of the Jamaica Constabulary Force Inspectors' Branch. Brown was commended for his bravery and honesty on Sep. 18, 2008, at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in New Kingston, Jamaica.
“I believed that God kept me safe throughout the period of the chase and what I was able to do that day,” said Brown. “I have been criticized by persons in many circles about the decision I made, but I strongly believe that it was my strong conviction in God and my upbringing from my parents that made all the difference. It was the right thing to do and I have not regretted it.”
Brown was named the Lasco Top Cop of the year in 2001. He was hailed as a good example to the police force.
Brown, who serves as an elder in his church, had this to say to persons who will find themselves in a similar situation one day: “Do the right thing to your fellow man, because honesty is still the best policy and integrity is what you have and what will take you through life. No amount of money can substitute for that.”
