I can’t seem to keep track of the daily news that comes in over the airwaves, by word of mouth and on websites. Wondering if each new crime report is fresh news, I have to actually pause and take a look at the calendar to see if the date is accurate.
Men are the backbone of our society, bringing home the bread, nurturing the woman and passing on their trade to the next generation. But “what is the result today from hard work and honest living?” Bandits on the loose, who don’t care about the consequences of their actions. They are bold and out for blood, and they take what they have not worked for in the name of the mighty dollar.
Rising crime in the Virgin Islands doesn’t seem to be getting a serious look from our leaders. Where is the sense of security?
Some leaders seem to be just concentrating on retaining a seat, while the poor man is paying the price. They should interact more with the public. Guns are getting into these islands too smoothly; the immigration and customs departments need to be investigated.
Who is checking planes, boats and so on? The police are trying their best, but I think it’s time to target the borders of our territory. We should not be too proud to ask for assistance from law enforcement personnel in neighbouring Puerto Rico and St. Thomas.
Meanwhile, the prison at Balsam Ghut has become a safe haven for criminals. What is the status there? No one seems to worry about the risk of diseases, infections, fights or overcrowding. The death sentence was abolished, but I do not know if prison uniforms and the shaving of hair were abolished. The prisoners seem to enjoy the free food and free rent.
Government action is needed immediately. As I wrote this commentary, two more crime headlines were posted — one including young ladies. We can hardly take care of our own.
Some of these problems appear to stem from unemployment. Migration at this point should be stopped unless absolutely necessary. The workforce in some cases is short-term, and individuals become frustrated, can’t pay their rent, and would rather stay in the territory and put up a fight than return home. This should not be allowed to happen. The territory is too small and is becoming unmanageable for everyone. The government cannot play hotshot to everybody’s needs and cry at the same time.
All are at risk. This is not the day when the poor man stole bread and everyone looked down on him. We can be caught in the crossfire innocently. Families rich and poor are bringing embarrassment to their homes.
I only can leave my two cents, if anyone cares to follow through. We all have raised our precious little children, and never dream of what has befallen them. But the law is set, and it will be only fitting that community members do the right thing.
Hotels and car rental companies need to be more vigilant, screening customers and obtaining their identification. Remember what the good old book says in Proverbs 11:21: “Though hand join in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished, but the seed of the righteous shall be delivered.”