Engage Gang Leaders in Crime Solutions, Says Ex-National Security Advisor

Identifying gang-related activities as the primary driver of crime in Saint Lucia, former National Security Advisor in the Office of the Prime Minister, Giovanni James has suggested a multifaceted approach to the problem that includes direct engagement with gang leaders. James, an attorney-at-law who has also worked with the Regional Security System (RSS) on crime-fighting efforts, dismissed the notion that gang culture in Saint Lucia originates from outside. He contended that it is deeply rooted in local rivalries. He said: “There are people who may have connections to other gangs. For instance, if a gang leader in Saint Lucia is involved in drugs, he may have a contact in Trinidad. However, this does not mean there is any connection to ‘Six’ or ‘Seven’ gangs in Trinidad. Our gangs are local and, for the most part, are based on geographic locations.” One of James’ proposals to address the issue is to engage directly with gang leaders to incorporate them into crime reduction efforts. He cited the work of media personality Dale Elliott, who, in his show Untold Stories, brought insights from a former gang leader to the public. “It’s time we start listening. We need to embrace that sector of society,...