Tremendous strides are part of strategy to address crime: PM Minnis

Bahamas: Over the past four years, tremendous strides have been made in reforming the nation’s policing system as part of a comprehensive strategy to address crime and its causes, said Prime Minister Dr. Hubert Minnis.

The prime minister spoke on Monday, 22 February, at the Orville Turnquest National Security Building opening, which houses the Ministry of National Security on John F. Kennedy Drive.

“We have integrated emerging technologies into our schemes operations with the introduction of Shot Spotter, Marco’s Alert Digital Billboards, drone technology, CCTV and body-worn cameras and dashboard cameras,” said Prime Minister Minnis.

The Real-Time Crime Centre was also opened last week. The Centre coordinates assets and directs the application of materials to high-crime areas, active crimes in progress, large-scale public events that may require law enforcement presence or response, and high profile or high repeat offenders in the community.

The criminal justice system’s ongoing reform is another essential element in addressing crime, announced the Prime Minister.

The Government has already started deleting records for first-time nonviolent offenders. There will be other parts to make the criminal justice system more effective, fairer, and more just, stated PM Minnis.

“Even as we are tough on violent offenders, our criminal justice must also be committed to restoration and rehabilitation,” said the Prime Minister.

“Firm on crime and its causes does not mean that the foundation of our justice system should be based on a punitive mindset.”

The PM said the administration’s comprehensive approach to crime must continue to include improved policing and the country’s courts and corrections system’s ongoing reform.

He noted that the government is committed to a new Supreme Court complex built at the old General Post Office site, which has been demolished.

Prime Minister Minnis thanked the Royal Bahamas Police Force and Royal Bahamas Defence Force for contributing to the decline in crime in various areas over the past several years.

The Prime Minister said that the Orville Turnquest National Security Building would play an essential role in strengthening and further coordinating the country’s armed forces.

The four-story 70,000 square-feet modern building comprises east and west wings to accommodate each of the armed forces.

“It is fitting that this building is named in honor of one who has given such service to The Bahamas throughout his lifetime,” declared Prime Minister Minnis.

Sir Orville, who watched the services from his home, was the fifth Bahamian Governor-General in an independent Bahamas and served in several public living areas, including as Minister of Justice and Foreign Affairs and as Attorney General and Deputy Prime Minister.

“As those of you who will work in this building and walk these halls, may you follow the inspiration of Sir Orville, who remained steadfast in his commitment to our national good,” said the Prime Minister.

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