Stronger communities needed to fight crime

THE EDITOR: For those of us affected by crime and criminality, we are the first line of defence and response. A refocus on community networking, social and sporting activities together with a robust communication strategy can supplement the police initiatives to create a safer TT.

We must all do our part to fight the scourge of criminal activities which has resulted in a fear factor that cannot be allowed to flourish. The my-brother’s-keeper approach is necessary and carries with it the wisdom of the ages.

“Community participation in crime prevention and criminal justice involves the active cooperation of local residents and organisations and has a long history of accomplishments in many countries around the world.” This was identified in the 13th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice 2015.

The Police Service must step up it’s community policing activities to include more innovate ways of getting the public involved in crime-fighting. Hosting more regular public meetings in communities involving village councils, non-governmental organisations, religious bodies, community-based organisations and relevant government agencies can have a high impact on participation rates and the need for trust and confidence in law enforcement officials.

Victims of crime can, additionally, contribute to building awareness in terms of others benefiting from situation analysis, appropriate responses to crime and prevention strategies. However, the involvement of victims must be accompanied by well resourced witness protection programmes and improvements to the criminal justice system.

Social media and information technology is being used increasingly by agencies around the world to strengthen relationships with communities and communicate with the public for investigation purposes. This is an effective communication tool to engage the public in crime prevention and criminal justice activities. Social media has changed the way we live and communicate and therefore our law enforcement agencies must be adequately resourced in this regard.

Our society must return to the days of knowing “who are the people in your neighborhood.” Citizens must form stronger bonds with others in their communities and support positive community-based activities. Together we can achieve the positive changes we want to see as a society. Our families and our children’s children will all be the beneficiaries of a safer TT if we all work together.

RONALD HUGGINS
, social media officer, PNM