I was quite shocked reading an article in The Daily Herald heading "Crime against tourists may attract stiffer penalties soon". I am definitely in favour of any measure what could result in a decrease in crime. Stiffer penalties and a three-time strike out are measures I support to the fullest.
But now here comes the joke:....."The Attorney General and Chief Prosecutor were instructed on Thursday to draft a "two-prong" policy that would increase the punishment meted out to perpetrators of crimes against tourists. The policy will use the definition of a "tourist" from the Law on Admittance and Expulsion".....Besides the fact that it seems to be possible to define a tourist and not a Sint Maartener (I leave this open door for others to kick in) I am really upset that it seems that you need to be from somewhere else to be protected. Basically you are telling a crook: "Crime is not good, but if you want to commit a crime......rob a Sint Maartener citizen!!". Are you out of your mind?!?
After asking the rhetorical question "Are you out of your mind?" I went on reading:....."The FCCA is "very adamant" on seeing an increase in punishment for crimes against tourists, Duncan said. It has made similar recommendations to other Caribbean countries, but no one is taking them seriously".....Duuuuh!! Which self-respecting country would protect others more than their own people?
All I have to say is this: DO NOT MAKE ME A SECOND CLASS CITIZEN IN SINT MAARTEN!!! Those who would vote in favour of such a ridiculous law have to face the consequences.
Dun wid it!!
Have a great day,
Sjaoel "Shooz" Richardson
