Public Defender launches probe into Jamaica’s Sexual Offenders’ Registry

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.