The Tribune

EDITOR, The Tribune.

The story in the media reads; “A former policeman has been convicted of smuggling guns from Florida into The Bahamas. Chief Magistrate Joyann Ferguson-Pratt will sentence ex-cop Patrick Rolle and Travis Demeritte on July 22, 2014, for smuggling 16 guns and 861 rounds of ammunition.

“Rolle, who was working as an assistant dock master in Cat Cay, allowed Demeritte to ship groceries and appliances in his name from Miami.

“Demeritte picked up the items from the mv Sherice M at Potter’s Cay dock in August, 2011. Police stopped Demeritte’s truck on suspicion that customs duty was not paid on the goods. They found the guns and bullets in a search of the trucks.”

This is an excellent example of the work our Police Officers are doing in the relentless struggle to eradicate crime, in particular the gun crimes. The performance of these officers in August, 2011 merits public commendations.

In reading the media report, my concern was about the sentencing. We have been taught as Police Officers, that the best deterrents to crime are extensive and vigilant patrols; keen observation coupled with a suspicious mind, prompt, efficient and effective action when there is reasonable ground of suspicion, efficient investigations, quick arrests and prosecution, but most importantly appropriate punishment.

On the July 24th, 2014, I was disappointed when I learned from the media that both men were sentenced to five years in prison and a $6,000 fine. It is my opinion, that three years to complete a simple case of possession was too long (three years) and that the sentence imposed is not in keeping with the seriousness of the crime.

These men are obviously gun-smugglers and were engaged in providing guns and ammunition to criminals.

They were involved in a lucrative business and were not concerned about the damage being done to our country. The prosecution should have asked the Magistrate to consider having to case sent to the Supreme Court where a more appropriate sentence could have been imposed.

The sentence imposed by the Court in this case is similar to what would be imposed on a person having one gun.

When gun smugglers are captured they ought to be removed from our community for a much longer period and there should be an investigation into their assets, which could have been from the proceeds of their crimes. Our courts must engage in the struggle to eradicate crime, with quick prosecution and appropriate sentencing.

PAUL THOMPSON Sr

Nassau,

July 24, 2014.