Parish Court Judge Ruth Lawrence dies; police investigate suspected suicide

Trelawny Parish Court Judge Ruth Lawrence was found unresponsive at her Coral Spring home on Tuesday evening and later pronounced dead at Falmouth Public General Hospital. Authorities are currently treating her death as a suspected suicide.

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Acting Commissioner of Police (ACP) Glendon Miller, who heads the Area One Police Division, told Observer Online that the investigation is still in its early stages. “By virtue of the initial investigation so far, which is really in the early stages, we are considering what transpired with Judge Ruth Lawrence’s passing as a suspected case of suicide for now, pending further investigation,” he said.

ACP Miller noted that Superintendent Jermaine Anglin, the Area One crime officer, is leading the investigative team to ensure all aspects of the case are thoroughly examined. “The forensic aspect of the investigation began last night and will continue today, with the collection of necessary statements,” he added.

Lawrence was discovered by her spouse around 7:50 p.m. at their home. A police source said no signs of physical injury were observed on her body.

Chief Justice Bryan Sykes, speaking on behalf of the Judiciary, expressed profound sorrow at Lawrence’s passing. “She dedicated her life to the service of justice, exemplifying unwavering commitment, compassion, and professionalism throughout her career,” Sykes said in a statement Wednesday.

Lawrence began her career in Westmoreland courts in 1997, and her integrity and dedication quickly became evident. She was appointed a Resident Magistrate in 2009, serving with distinction across multiple parishes, including Westmoreland, Trelawny, Kingston and St. Andrew, St. James, and St. Ann. She also served as Chairperson of the Children’s Court in the Northern Circuit and as a key member of the Western Regional Family Court.

“Her service extended beyond her courtroom work to enriching the lives of countless persons—children, families, and communities—through her leadership and compassion. Ruth’s passing is a profound loss to our system and to all who knew her,” the chief justice added, noting that her legacy will continue to inspire.

The police have urged anyone with information relevant to the investigation to come forward as inquiries continue.