CRIME DOES PAY.

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Dear Editor, a quick view of a possible career change. Many law abiding citizens on Sint Maarten are often wondering why criminals are getting away with a "slap on the wrist" after committing a crime. If someone's home is invaded, a person has to stare into the barrel of a gun when an armed robbery is taking place or is being raped, it will leave emotional scars for the rest of his/her life. In no time the criminal is out on the streets and might face his/her victim with a smile on his/her face.
I am of the opinion that crime does pay. Commit forty robberies, get a mild sentence for one and continue doing what you are doing. No long work days, no supervisor, unlimited vacation days, decent pay etc. There are enough vacancies for criminals. You don't need to apply anywhere. You can start anytime you feel like.
We have a "learn on the job" education with police officers and politicians teaching us the "tricks of the trade". Perfect!!
Our system is weak and malfunctioning. Two elements can be applied to (possible) criminals/criminal acts: Prevention and Reprisal. Prevention can be achieved by educating possible criminals and by educating possible victims to protect their selves and their property. Reprisal is needed when a crime has been committed. We need to educate our people and we need harsher punishments on criminals. We will leave it to your imagination of what kind of punishment is needed for criminals.
If neither prevention and reprisal are being persued, I should start thinking about being a criminal and give up my job as accounting manager.
Question: Why all this bickering about relatively minor issues by our members of parliament and not taking the bull by the horns and make some major decisions which could improve our daily lives drastically?

Have a great day,

Sjaoel "Shooz" Richardson