First female public defender in Jamaica appointed

By Jascene Dunkley-Malcolm Last updated Jan 20, 2015

Attorney-at-Law, Arlene Harrison Henry, created history last week, when she became the first woman in Jamaica to be appointed Public Defender. Mrs. Harrison Henry, who was sworn into office by Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, during a ceremony at King’s House, succeeds Earl Witter, QC, who retired last April at the age of 70.

public defender 2 — Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen (right), listens keenly as Attorney-at-Law, Arlene Harrison Henry, takes the Oath of Allegiance and the Oath of Office, as she is sworn in as Public Defender, during a ceremony at King’s House on January 16.

public defender 3' — Jamaican Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen (right), presents Public Defender, Arlene Harrison Henry, with the instrument of appointment, during a swearing in ceremony at King’s House on January 16.