Curaçao Member of Parliament (MP) Sheldry Osepa (PNP) recently asked Justice Minister Shalten Hato (MFK) to look into equipping local police with so-called body-cams (see Thursday newspaper). He did so after widespread criticism based on videos of the way certain situations were handled during carnival parades.
Outfitting officers with such devices to capture image and sound has become a growing trend globally in the interest of both them and the people they face. It is not altogether without controversy, as especially law enforcement personnel unions expressed reservations.
The latter feel knowing that their every move is being recorded puts undue pressure on members. This could negatively impact the resolute manner in which they must sometimes act and thus potentially increase the risk.
Most would agree, however, that having such readily-available evidence is beneficial to protect the rights of all involved. This modern tool can also help solve and prosecute crimes more easily.
It’s not clear exactly what positions the St. Maarten Police Force KPSM and local labour unions representing its staff have on the issue. The same goes for outgoing Justice Minister Anna Richardson (NA) and – of course – her still unknown successor who will be nominated by Nation Opportunity Wealth (NOW) according to the incoming URSM/DP/PFP/NOW coalition’s governing accord.
A significant investment would obviously be required, but seeing how much is already spent on law enforcement it might be worthwhile considering. The Netherlands has proven particularly supportive where it regards the judicial system in the Dutch Caribbean and could perhaps be persuaded to assist.
At the end of the day, this concerns enhanced transparency.
