Barbados is “ripe for a full reset”, according to Democratic Labour Party Crime Commission chair Verla De Peiza, who said new police data showing hundreds of young people charged with serious crimes confirm a deepening social crisis.
In a statement issued following Wednesday’s press briefing by the Barbados Police Service, De Peiza said the crime figures it reported confirmed the DLP’s own findings on the state of crime and society.
Acting Commissioner of Police Erwin Boyce said that 63 firearms have been seized so far this year, compared with 61 in 2024. He also revealed that 1 750 rounds of ammunition have been confiscated this year, compared with 485 last year.
Boyce also expressed concern over the surge in youth criminal activities; the age group of greatest worry is those aged 15 to 30, many of whom have already been charged with major crimes.
He revealed that between the ages of 15 and 19, 391 people were charged.
Of those aged 20 to 29, 999 were charged; between 30 and 39, 877; and between 40 and 44, 376.
De Peiza said these figures support the commission’s research: “The most recent press conference of the Barbados Police Service lends credence to the research and report of the Democratic Labour Party. It puts in stark relief what the country already knows. Its young men are in crisis.”
She added that the situation was unsurprising in light of the high level of youth unemployment.
“It is also not surprising when read alongside the high youth unemployment figures. It is evident that Barbados is ripe for a full reset that will enforce societal standards. These must be taught deliberately.”
De Peiza stressed that both the criminal justice and education systems have vital roles to play in addressing the crisis.
“The young persons already caught by the criminal justice system need thorough assessment and rehabilitation through the courts and the prison system. The schools need preventative filtration systems to identify the at-risk students and focused efforts at reclaiming them as valued citizens.”
She also praised law enforcement, noting the need for proper support and independence.
“Kudos to the Barbados Police Service for their tireless and often thankless efforts,” De Peiza said. “They need to be capitalised and resourced, including human resources, to enable them to continue their sterling contributions. They also need to remain free of political interference to ensure that all aspects of crime are tackled, not just violent crime.”
(LG)
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