US gives over one million dollars to boost law enforcement
The United States government has made a sizable contribution towards law enforcement development and interdiction efforts. The fund will also cover narcotics prosecution, administration of justice, maritime law enforcement and administrative support. A ceremony was held this morning at the Raccoon Street Station to mark the occasion.
Carolyn Curiel, US Ambassador to Belize
“Our investment of one million dollars, in our partnership with Belize in law enforcement for the coming year, is indeed twice the amount provided last year and I know Mr. Minister that it will go a long way in helping you and Belize to fight the good fight for the good people of Belize.”
One fight the government is hoping to win is the drug war. Espat says since 1991 there has been a steady increase in drug related crimes. Espat says the agreement will strengthen Belize’s capabilities to suppress illegal drugs, fight violent crime and enhance administration. It also provides for equipment and training for law enforcement officers.
Although none of the United States’ aid will be used to reinforce an area of police work that has been sharply criticized lately, the prosecutions branch, Minister of National Security Jorge Espat, says there will be improvements to both the prosecution and criminal investigation arms of the police force.
Jorge Espat, Minister of National Security
“We are strengthening the prosecution branch. We are strengthening the C.I.B. We have appointed Mario Vernon to head the Belize City C.I.B. That appointment has been welcomed by our society, experienced police officer. We are looking at doing things differently inside the prosecution and the C.I.B. For example we are looking to make sure the staff is far more permanent than has been the practice in the past where because of the nature of policing, police officers are transferred.”
Espat says they have also had discussions with Ambassador Curiel and the British High Commission to see how they can receive outside help to improve both departments.
Jorge Espat
“We do share a lot of information with the US government, not only on drugs but in other areas of crime and violence in our society. We have certain treaties and agreements that are enforced. On the case of the child murders, our Police Department is sharing the profiles, the cases, and FBI personnel are assisting us. We have the National Forensic Services that again is liaising very closely with US agents.”
As the Police Department is being strengthened, Espat says he is satisfied with the work, commitment and dedication shown by the police. But when asked if there were any plans to remove Ornel Brooks, the Police Commissioner who has come under heavy criticism for the way high profile cases have been investigated, the Minister would only say that presently all heads of departments in the public service are under review.
Jorge Espat
“Criticisms are levied against all of us dear, and the Prime Minister announced in his address to the nation that the government is seriously looking at the performance of the public service. We have been told that as Ministers, Ministers’ performances are also under review and permanent secretaries’ performances are also under review. Heads of departments are under review. All, everyone’s performance is under review at this time.”
