2007 was one of the bloodiest years in Jamaica, and 2008 seems to be starting on the same footing. A month into the year, there have already been more than a hundred murders on the island. In 2007, 1,574 murders were recorded by the police (more than four deaths a day), a 17% increase on the previous year. 79% of these deaths were caused by gunshots. November was the deadliest month, with 166 murders.
Police reports single out the districts of Olympic Gardens, Waterhouse, Drewsland, Seaview Gardens, Riverton City, and parts of Maxfield Avenue as the most crime-ridden spots. So much so that some public figures are calling for the death penalty.