Addressing Sexual Crimes

The Editor
The Anguillian

Dear Sir:

ADDRESSING
SEXUAL CRIMES

I read with much interest parts one and two of Alex Richardson’s Legal Notes column on the legislation relating to sexual offences in Anguilla.

Those who drafted the law have in their wisdom provided much protection for the young girls of Anguilla in particular who are being targeted by unscrupulous men and raped.

It was a good idea for Mr. Richardson to have brought the severity of the punishment to the attention of readers. The hope now is that it will serve as a deterrent to those who are bent on committing sexual crimes.

I was disgusted when I read recently about the number of rape and indecent assault cases on the island.

Coming from the background of a social worker, before I studied economics and politics, I still maintain considerable interest in social protection laws and social justice. I therefore hail the Government’s efforts to enact legislation such as the amended Sexual Offences Act to make it more effective and meaningful.

I also commend the lady Judge who recently imposed some stiff jail sentences on a number of persons for indecently assaulting and raping minors.

The law must be enforced to the letter as far as possible. If it is not, then it makes no sense having the legislation on the books and not having the will to impose it.

Jurors have an important role to play in upholding the law, protecting and ensuring that the social and criminal justice system works well. Anguilla is a small society, where everyone knows each other, but jurors must not fail in carrying out their responsibilities. I think they should count themselves privileged to be part of the court machinery in the administration of justice.

I look forward to Alex Richardson’s legal column as well as that of Cora Richardson, another Attorney, who is also providing useful information to the public in her column.

Sylvia Richardson-Gumbs
St. Thomas, USVI/Atlanta