On Thursday March 16th, 2023 Prime Minister Hon. Phillip J. Pierre introduced the Suppression of Escalated Crime (Police Powers) Bill in the lower house of parliament.
This bill will allow The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) the powers to preserve public order, public safety and economic stability.
The Police Powers Act received unanimous support from government legislators and was passed in the Lower House.
The act authorizes the National Security Minister on the advice of the commissioner of police to designate an area affected by high crime rates as an escalated crime area.
In the event that a designation order by the National Security Minister is issued the police force has the authority to move in and execute intensified tactical operations.
Offenses made under the Police Powers Act result in fines not exceeding $50,000 East Caribbean Dollars or imprisonment not exceeding fifteen years or both.
Convictions on indictment for offenses made under the Police Powers Act result in imprisonment not exceeding twenty-five years.
Photo: insightcrime.org
