DLP crime plan urges justice reform, community focus

The Democratic Labour Party (DLP) has released a new report outlining its proposed approach to tackling crime in Barbados, with recommendations ranging from major changes to the justice system to greater community involvement in crime prevention.
The report, commissioned by Opposition Leader Ralph Thorne and prepared by a 12-member commission chaired by attorney and criminologist Verla De Peiza, highlights a growing disconnect between the public and the justice system.

According to the summary, the public feels there is unequal treatment under the law, with some believing that certain individuals are shielded from consequences based on their social status.
“There is the belief that there is a protected class of persons whose crimes remain unpunished even when detected,” the report noted.

It also highlighted concerns about the under-resourcing of government agencies such as the police, the Forensic Sciences Centre, and departments responsible for rehabilitation and social support, making it difficult to address crime in a meaningful way.
The DLP’s recommendations include:

• Increasing police visibility through saturation patrols
• Adopting a zero-tolerance approach to gun crime
• Recruiting and training officers from school age
• Shifting prosecution responsibilities away from police
• Expanding Legal Aid and introducing victim liaison officers
• Introducing legislation to address gangs, cybercrime, and whistle-blower protection

The report also places strong emphasis on social reform, calling for early intervention through civic education at the nursery level and targeted support for young people at risk.

The Commission said crime prevention should be treated as a national priority and suggested that funding could come from international grants, the UN Sustainable Development Goals programme, and better use of government resources.

The DLP says it intends for the document to contribute to the wider national discussion on crime and public safety.