‘Mandatory minimums’ for gun crimes, says senator

Independent Senator Andrew Mallalieu has called for mandatory minimum sentences for gun-related offences, arguing that current penalties do not reflect public concern about rising firearm crimes.

He backed the Supreme Court of Judicature (Amendment) Bill to introduce firearms courts, even as he expressed sadness at his suggestion that crimes involving firearms should carry a mandatory minimum sentence, given the current climate in the country.

“I would like to call again what I think is necessary in terms of mandatory minimum sentencing for crimes committed with a firearm. I understand that there are some [Caribbean Court of Justice] rulings or other things that need to be dealt with in order to have mandatory minimum sentences. I can’t comment on that. What I can say is that if you asked Barbadians today, the vast majority would tell you that the sentences for crimes committed with firearms need to be much harsher than they are. So I would call for mandatory minimum sentences.”  

The provision in the bill for up to 15 High Court judges would only have a practical benefit if they were appointed, and it would point to the need for a clear case routing system.

He added: “The court infrastructure… will need resources immediately for this to be implemented and to be successful. Passing this bill will do nothing if we don’t put the resources behind it to do it.”

In a brief speech, the real estate executive and lawmaker also raised the question of whether Barbados should hold a referendum on whether, with the exception of the police, the army, and those secured at gun-sporting establishments, all firearms should be banned from the island.

(JB)