FBI applicant believes there's more behind his rejection for post of top cop

A member of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Wilfred Rattigan, whose application for the post of Police Commissioner was turned down by the Police Service Commission on Tuesday, believes more is at play than just qualifications.

Rattigan, 54, who is currently the Unit Chief for the FBI's Africa, Asia and Middle East Operations Unit in Washington DC, and who has 28 years experience in law enforcement, was not short listed for an interview for the post.

According to Rattigan, he was turned down although the job was open to overseas applicants.

“I felt I was qualified at least to get an interview,  though I was qualified and  there is more at play here than mere qualification , there’s more to it than that -  it sends a bad message, it really does. We will see what happens in the coming weeks . One of the things that will be interesting is to take their CV, put it up against my CV and you be the judge.

He said the response from the Police Service Commission was disappointing given his experience and the issue of crime in Jamaica.

He stated that the focus should be on selecting a qualified individual to tackle issues facing the Jamaica Constabulary Force. Issues that can be better addressed by a Police Commissioner appointed from outside

Meanwhile, Rattigan says he will not be taking any action in relation to the Police Service Commission's response.

“My mother always taught me that you don’t go where people don’t want you . So with a clear conscience and an open heart I have provided myself and my service and it has been rejected. So I will just move onto the next chapter,” he said.