PM GASTON BROWNE SAID: Our Parliament increased the maximum sentence to 15 yrs for gun crimes. We were advised by members of the judiciary that no minimum sentencing should be legislated, which will fetter discretion and would constitute a trespass on the domain of the judiciary.

However, we find that some in the judiciary are abusing the discretion in law, by imposing lenient sentences on repeat offenders and others who have committed heinous crimes.

These short sentences have now resulted in approximately 250 repeat offenders, who are stretching law enforcement capabilities and putting the entire society at risk.

The Executive has the authority to ask for the removal of these under-performing members of the Judiciary from the jurisdiction.

Alternatively, if the court refuses to remove them from the jurisdiction and they are non-belongers – should the Executive exercise its right to remove them from the state in the interest of national security and protection of the citizenry from these criminals ?

Seeking public advice.

This article was originally published by Antigua News Room. Read the original article here: PM Browne Seeks Public’s Advice on Removing Judges Over Lenient Sentences.