Cops warn residents after fake JPS worker busted in Kingston

The St Andrew North police are urging the public to be on high alert following the arrest of a man accused of posing as a Jamaica Public Service (JPS) worker to defraud unsuspecting residents.

The accused, Sheldon Williams, an electrician of a Kingston 8 address, was taken into custody last week and charged with eight counts of fraud for allegedly trespassing on the works of JPS and presenting himself as an employee or contractor.

According to detectives at the Constant Spring Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB), the scheme involved Williams visiting a Barbican address in Kingston 8 on October 15, 2025, where he met with the complainant.

He reportedly identified himself as Dwayne Williams, an employee of JPS. However, he refused to show the complainant his identification.

The accused then demanded a sum of cash in order not to prosecute the complainant for an irregularity he claimed to have found.

When his demand was not met, he removed the JPS meter from the premises and left in a white Toyota Probox motor car.

The complainant made a report to the police on November 13, 2025, and an investigation was launched.

The accused was held on Saturday, November 15, 2025, during a planned operation.

The Gleaner understands that a white Toyota Probox vehicle was searched and an altered JPS ID, a tablet, and JPS meters were found.

The police say the arrest comes amid a rise in reports of individuals impersonating utility workers to target vulnerable customers.

JPS earlier this month issued an advisory warning the public to be vigilant and outlining steps to verify legitimate workers. The company reminded customers that all official JPS employees and contractors must carry photo identification, wear branded safety gear, and should never collect cash for services at customers premises. Any payments, the company said, must be done through official channels.

The utility provider further urged residents to immediately report any suspicious individuals claiming to represent JPS, stressing that impersonation schemes not only defraud customers but also pose serious safety risks.

The St Andrew North police say the arrest is expected to form part of a broader crackdown on scammers who exploit the trust associated with uniformed service providers.

They are encouraging anyone who may have been approached by the suspect or others pretending to be JPS workers to contact the nearest police station.

- Andre Williams

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