Promoters in St James seems to be upbeat about the state of emergency that was declared in the crime-infested parish yesterday.

Rather than being worried about the potential decrease in patrons at upcoming and weekly entertainment events, some promoters are welcoming the initiative.

Robert Russell, operator of Pier 1 and CEO of Summerfest Productions Limited, said that he fully supports the state of emergency, but hopes that it will not affect his list of entertainment events.

“I am not certain if I will be affected because I am not certain how far the restrictions will go. We have events that attract tourists and visitors alike, but we don’t have any planned for this week. However, I fully support the move by the security forces, and I hope that the result will be positive,” Russell said.

He added that the spot checks and special screenings being carried out by the police and military in and around Montego Bay are seen a plus because it means a safer and more secure environment for party goers.

Robert Russell

For promoter and entertainer Mixing Lab, the human beat box who resides in the parish, crime has been impacting how party permits are issued

“How long me nuh keep no show because I can’t get a permit due to the crime,” said Mixing Lab, who is known for parties such as Summer Rock and Winter Rock.

“The police were not issuing any permits in certain areas, so it was affecting us promoters and artistes to get bookings. However, I think the state of emergency a go make it better right now because you can keep your event knowing that the soldier and police are around,” Mixing Lab added.

Dervin “Mixing Lab” Lee

Crime continues to raise its ugly head with St James recording an alarming 335 murders last year. The spiking crime rate continued into the new year, and among the latest killings was the brazen gun attacks earlier this week which left one man dead and two injured. The incidents occurred a short distance away from the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay.