Dr. Elizabeth Ward, Chairperson, Violence Prevention Alliance

Dr. Ward advised that Jamaica had the third highest homicide rate in the world.  Her concerns included communication and data regarding violence and gangs.

In her presentation, she mentioned that the proposed Anti-Gang Legislation did not address the root causes of crime.  It lacked a clear definition of the word “gangs” and, despite this, identified a wide range of criminal offences which could cause the false incarceration of innocent persons.

Dr. Ward said that there was no legislation that allowed for custodial sentencing.  Persons needed to be given second chances and provided with the option to participate in a remedial programme.

The MAJ suggested that the Alliance should channel their views openly, continuously and constructively out in the public domain.