Antigua and Barbuda plans tougher sentences for gun and sex crimes

Antigua and Barbuda is preparing to implement new laws that would set minimum sentences for serious firearm and sexual offences. These are especially for repeat offenders.

Prime Minister Gaston Browne said during the Browne and Browne Show that these proposed changes will increase maximum prison terms. And it will also introduce minimum penalties for certain serious offences.

Browne said that the changes are going to be taken to the parliament soon. He said that the new laws will also create an opportunity for discussion. The lawyers will still be able to challenge the changes through the courts.

The proposed changes are going to focus on serious gun and sexual offences. These will also include cases involving children. Browne suggested that the repeat offenders should spend longer periods in prison. He also said that some sentences have been too lenient for serious crimes.

A minimum sentence of 10 years is being considered for some offences. Browne has also backed a proposal for serious child sexual offences and gun crimes. The proposal says that these serious offences could carry sentences ranging from 15 years to life in prison. The final penalties are not confirmed yet.

Browne said that the judges would still be able to consider special or unusual circumstances when deciding a sentence. This would allow the courts to be flexible when there are reasons that may justify a different sentence.

Another change in addition to these that would be proposed is that the prison superintendent will no longer be able to reduce a prisoner’s sentence because of good behaviour.

Browne also appealed that the sentencing rules should be reviewed so that the penalties match the seriousness of offences better. He said that there is a need for fair and balanced sentences, but the independence of the judiciary in making decisions on penalties should be respected as well.

These changes were proposed by Browne after the comments he made during an emergency national security meeting that sparked concern among sections of the judiciary.

Members of the judiciary criticized this proposal, as they said that it is a threat to judicial independence and to the separation of powers. Browne said that he has never tried to interfere in any individual case. He also said that he has not given any instruction about removing any member of the judiciary from the country.

The proposed changes will now move forward as authorities are preparing the necessary amendments to the laws.