New ID Law to Combat Youth Crime

The government is set to require citizens to carry identification at all times as part of a new initiative to enforce proposed laws that would raise the legal age for consuming alcohol, using marijuana, and gambling. Homeland Security Minister Roger Alexander announced this plan following a meeting with the Prime Minister, who proposed increasing the legal drinking age from 18 to 21 and the age for marijuana use and gambling from 18 to 25. The move aims to help police verify individuals’ ages and addresses, particularly to curb underage consumption of alcohol.

Alexander emphasized the importance of these measures during a press briefing after attending the 49th Caricom Heads of Government meeting in Jamaica, where discussions included crime, gangs, and women’s abuse. He noted that while some programs to combat crime are not new, they have been rebranded or revived after being neglected. He highlighted the need for technology in police operations, which would allow officers to access information in real time, enhancing their ability to manage crime effectively.

The Minister acknowledged the challenges faced by the police service, including the need for increased visibility and collaboration between the police and defense forces. He also mentioned plans to join the Regional Security System to strengthen crime-fighting efforts across the region.

In terms of resources, Alexander is focused on ensuring that the police have the necessary technical support and equipment, including body cameras, to modernize policing practices. He believes that the use of technology is crucial for effective law enforcement.

Furthermore, he addressed the issue of citizen cooperation in reporting crimes, noting that fear often prevents individuals from speaking out. Alexander asserted that enhancing the police’s capabilities and fostering public trust are essential to improving crime detection rates and overall community safety.