A Family Tradition of Service and Dedication Nearly two decades ago, Corporal David Ricketts joined the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) with a mission to serve and protect. What he didn’t anticipate was that 18 years later, he would be proudly standing between his twin daughters, Deanna and Deandra, as they graduated to follow in his footsteps.
On Friday, March 22, 2024, the 22-year-old twins graduated as part of Batch 158, marking a proud milestone for both them and their father. Their journey from childhood aspirations to law enforcement professionals is a testament to resilience, discipline, and inspiration.
From Culinary Dreams to Law Enforcement Careers Initially, Deanna and Deandra had set their sights on the culinary industry, studying at HEART/NSTA Trust with dreams of becoming chefs. However, their career paths took a turn when they began visiting their father at the National Police College of Jamaica, where he is part of the Weapons and Tactical Training Unit.
“COVID-19 changed everything. The hotel industry wasn’t hiring, and we started spending more time at Daddy’s workplace. Over time, we were inspired by what we saw,” Deandra shared.
Her sister, Deanna, echoed the sentiment: “Watching our father’s dedication and the way he carried out his duties with integrity motivated us. We knew this was the right path for us.”
Balancing Family and Professionalism Despite training at the same institution where their father worked, Corporal Ricketts made a deliberate effort to step back, ensuring his daughters received unbiased mentorship.
“I wanted no talks of favoritism, so I left their training and development in the hands of my colleagues,” Ricketts explained.
Training was intense, but the twins leaned on each other for strength. Deandra, the younger twin, admitted struggling with being away from her mother in St. James, but her sister kept her focused.
“Daddy always taught us to finish what we start. No turning back, no giving up,” Deanna said.
A Future of Service and Ambition With their training complete, the sisters are now ready to make their mark in the Jamaica Constabulary Force. Though their bond remains unbreakable, for the first time, they will be stationed separately—Deandra in St. James and Deanna in Trelawny.
Both have ambitious career goals. Deandra aspires to become Commissioner of Police, recognizing the hard work and dedication required to achieve it. Meanwhile, Deanna envisions balancing her law enforcement career with her passion for cooking.
“I want to rise through the ranks while still pursuing my love for culinary arts,” she shared.
A Legacy of Commitment and Excellence Corporal Ricketts’ journey, from joining the JCF in 2007 to now witnessing his daughters continue his legacy, is a powerful story of inspiration. As Jamaica’s law enforcement force gains two dedicated young officers, the Ricketts twins stand ready to uphold the values of integrity, commitment, and service.
Their story is a reminder that passion and perseverance pave the way for greatness, ensuring that the future of policing in Jamaica is in capable hands.
Bob Marley and Usain Bolt, not Miss Lou.