The Turks and Caicos Islands Governmentstands firmly behind the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RTCIPF),Deputy Premier Hon. Sean Astwood affirmed at a recent press conference oncrime. Highlighting the collaborative efforts between the government and lawenforcement, Astwood emphasized that combating crime requires a holisticapproach that includes prevention, rehabilitation, and enforcement. He pointedto key government initiatives such as the Chance for Change Program,designed to help ex-offenders reintegrate into society, as well as theforthcoming Trade School, aimed at equipping young people with skills to pursuemeaningful careers and deter them from criminal lifestyles.

Astwood underscored the government’ssubstantial investments in supporting law enforcement, including the purchaseof a plane, additional police vehicles, funding for 20 new police officers, andexpanded CCTV coverage in Providenciales and Grand Turk. He also highlightedlegislative measures such as extending sentences for gun-related crimes fromfive to seven years as part of the government’s strategy to deter criminalbehavior. "We are taking this seriously," Astwood stated, emphasizingthe importance of ensuring youth understand the dangers of a life of crime andthe government’s commitment to addressing crime from all angles.

In his remarks, Astwood called for publictrust in the RTCIPF and stressed the unified efforts of government leadershipin tackling the rise in crime. “The leadership of this country is working insolidarity,” he said, reiterating confidence in the Police Force’s ability toaddress the situation effectively. The Deputy Premier’s comments reflect thegovernment’s multi-faceted approach to improving public safety while addressingthe root causes of crime, ensuring a safer future for all Turks and Caicos Islanders.