Backing Bruce

Over the years, one may assume that responsible public servants have taken a piecemeal approach to crime fighting, and this has not borne much fruit, resulting in escalating crime and violence being experienced by our citizens and those who visit our shores.

The strategic approach now being pursued - employing social intervention and crime-fighting strategies - must be commended and supported by all well-thinking Jamaicans, as we have now begun to see some benefits in the reduction of crime. This process must continue, giving full consideration of transparency and equal justice for all.

The recent pronouncement of the prime minister regarding High Court costs has sparked the ire of the legal fraternity, and the prime minister has been warned against meddling with court costs.

The time is right for us to effect much-needed legislation to support crime-fighting mechanisms. One such measure would be the 'show-me-the-money legislation', similar to the 'know-your-client legislation' which prevails in the financial sector.

This legislation would restrict attorneys-at-law from accepting large cash payments from clients, thus providing traceable evidence of source of funds. This would go a far way in reducing crime, as it is presumed that persons commit crimes to access money for legal defence, hiring the best in the business.

I am, etc.,

ABC Brown